Teaching Beyond Sound: Educators’ Challenges and Strategies in Hospitality Programs for Students with Hearing Disabilities

This study investigates the strategies and challenges faced by educators who teach students with hearing disabilities in a hospitality program at a higher learning institution in Malaysia. Eight (8) lecturers from the hospitality program at the Polytechnic and Community College participated in the face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using content analysis, facilitated by ATLAS.ti version 25, to identify themes and codes. The analysis revealed four key themes related to challenges: (1) communication barrier, (2) unique learning demands, (3) emotional and behavioral issues, and (4) institutional and resource limitations. These findings highlight the multifaceted barriers that educators encounter when teaching students with disabilities. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes training for lecturers, enhanced support services, and improved institutional policies to create a more inclusive learning environment. The findings also identify four themes for strategies that educators can apply to enhance teaching efficacy and student acceptability: (1) communication adaptability, (2) visual and experiential learning, (3) peer support and collaboration, and (4) encouraging independence and self-management. In conclusion, the findings emphasized the importance of creativity and patience, and educators must stay committed, strategic, and driven to thrive academically and professionally in any circumstances.