Selection and utilization of hypermedia in pedagogy of hearing impaired students in Kenya

Abstract

Hypermedia has modified the pedagogy. Learning happens in situations, while technology focuses on the settings and programs which make learners be involved. This paper aims at investigating; influence of integrating hypermedia pedagogy of hearing impaired students and the benefits of selection and utilization of hypermedia technology into the classroom. The study has been done to incorporate technology in classrooms based on the constructivist structure context. Constructivism explains that learners construct their own knowledge and are active participants. The study assumed a pragmatic research paradigm adopting mixed methods using quasi experimental approach involving Solomon four nonequivalent control group design. Simple random sampling procedure was used to obtain four schools, two for experiment and two for control group. Data collection instrument was questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics which included; mean, standard deviation, frequencies and percentages. The hypothesis was tested using inferential statistics which was Chi-square. The results of the study showed that use of hypermedia had positive effect on motivation, retention, enjoyment, knowledge construction and self-directed learning. Secondly selection of hypermedia depends on its effectiveness. The findings of this study may create awareness and need for integrating hypermedia in teaching and learning which emphasize on studentcentered approach, and helping learners to focus attention that promotes teachers’ instructional technique. The following recommendations were made; review of curriculum and digitize HI content, improve ICT infrastructure and facilities.