FACTORS AFFECTING THE EDUCATIONAL GROWTH OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN SPECIAL SCHOOLS IN OYO STATE, NIGERIA

<p>This study investigated factors affecting the educational growth of persons with disabilities in special schools in Oyo State, Nigeria. It aimed to identify the educational challenges faced by persons with disabilities, explore their socio-economic factors, and assess the institutional support structures available in special schools. A total of 50 students were randomly selected from two special schools: Durbar Grammar School, Oyo and Federal College of Special Education, Oyo. A descriptive statistical technique was employed to analyze the data, with emphasis on peculiar features like their frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. Results of the study revealed that 76% respondents were denied access to learning materials and 74% had no access to assistive technology like screen readers that could improve their educational growth; family background and transportation impacted their educational growth, while 78% respondents affirmed great support from their teachers and the staff of the schools. Based on these results, it was recommended that there is an urgent need to increase the availability and accessibility of learning materials and assistive technologies to support students with diverse needs. Similarly, parents and guardians of persons with special needs should be encouraged to release their children and wards for enrolment in the special school to aid their learning experience.</p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0136/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>