Factors influencing the development of Ugandan sign language in the learning environment: a case study of Uganda school for the deaf Kampala city

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate factors influencing the development of UgSL in the learning environment: A case study of Uganda School for the Deaf, Kampala City. The study was based on three objectives that were; identify environmental aspects that support the development of UgSL, find out features in the learning environment that hinder the development of UgSL and examine strategies of improving the development of UgSL. The researcher purposively sampled 9 hearing teachers, 3 Deaf teachers, 4 hearing non–teaching staff, 3 Deaf non-teaching staff, 1 Deaf role model and 10 learners.The study employed the use of a descriptive survey design which describes respondent’s characteristics such as opinions, attitudes, believes based on educational or social issues. Questionnaires, observation and interview were used. The researcher employed qualitative Case Study design which involves in-depth investigation of the problem at hand. The transcription of language annotation (ELAN) software was used to identify themes in UgSL videos using frequency tables, and bar graphs. The study was conducted using a descriptive survey design which describes respondent’s characteristics such as opinions, attitudes, believes based on educational or social issues. It was found out that the availability of Deaf role models, Parents and Deaf peers influenced the development of UgSL in the learning environment. Based on the findings, the researcher recommends that there is a great need of training hearing teachers, parents, and other relevant stakeholders UgSL to attain fluency.