Towards Inclusive Education: The Learning Environment for Pupils with Visual Impairment in Public Primary Schools in Tanzania

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the existing learning conditions and identify barriers to effective participation and inclusion of pupils with visual impairment in public primary schools in Dodoma city, Tanzania. Employing a qualitative approach, the study utilized a phenomenological design to deeply explore the lived experiences of school managers, teachers, PWVI, and parents. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and non-participant observations from two public primary schools that accommodate more PWVI than any other school in the region. The study involved 32key informants, comprising two head teachers, ten teachers, fourteen PWVI, and six parents, who were selected using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The data analysis followed thematic analysis, starting with familiarization, coding, theme identification, and theme refinement. Triangulation, peer debriefing, and member checking were used to ensure the credibility and reliability of the findings. The findings indicate that while significant efforts have been made in public primary schools in Tanzania to enhance physical accessibility and provide suitable learning materials for PWVI, substantial gaps remain. These included insufficient tactile markers, lack of braille and tactile resources, and inadequate teacher training. Despite these shortcomings, social inclusion initiatives like peer mentoring and counseling services were positively noted, though their effectiveness varied. The findings suggest the need for more comprehensive strategies to address the accessibility challenges PWVI face. Therefore, the study recommends improving infrastructure, ensuring the availability of appropriate learning materials, and providing extensive teacher training to support PWVI effectively. This holistic approach is deemed essential to foster an inclusive educational environment that enables PWVI to reach their full potential.