INFLUENCE OF ONSET OF HEARING LOSS AND PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT ON READING COMPREHENSION OF PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENT IN OYO TOWN

Abstract

This empirical study investigates the influence of the onset of hearing loss and parental involvement on the reading comprehension of students with hearing impairment in Oyo town, Nigeria. Using a mixed-method approach, the research explores the relationships between the age of onset of hearing loss, the degree of parental involvement in educational activities, and the reading comprehension abilities of affected students. Data were collected from a sample of 200 students with hearing impairment, their parents, and teachers through surveys, interviews, and standardized reading comprehension tests. Quantitative data were analyzed using statistical methods, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed to identify key patterns and insights. The results indicate that early-onset hearing loss significantly impacts reading comprehension, but high levels of parental involvement can mitigate some of these effects. The study concludes with recommendations for educators and policymakers to enhance the educational outcomes for students with hearing impairments.