AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF INFORMATION NEED AND INFORMATION SEEKING BEHAVIOR OF PERSONS WITH HEARING AND SPEECH IMPAIRMENT IN AWKA NORTH ANAMBRA STATE
Keywords:
Information needs, information-seeking behavior, hearing impairment, speech impairment, Awka North, Anambra StateAbstract
This research investigates the information requirements and information-seeking habits of individuals with hearing and speech impairments, paying particular attention to their difficulties, preferred sources of information, and methods for overcoming obstacles. Based on an empirical approach, data collection involved both qualitative and quantitative methods from 320 participants across the Local Government Areas of Onitsha North and South, Idemili North and South, as well as Nnewi North and South in Anambra State. Structured interviews and naturalistic observations were employed as data collection methods in crucial information-seeking contexts like schools, libraries, and social gatherings. The findings show that individuals with hearing and speech impairments mainly look for information regarding education, healthcare, job opportunities, and social involvement. Digital platforms, community networks, and specialized institutions were recognized as favored sources of information, but accessibility continues to be a major issue. Significant obstacles to accessing information comprise the absence of assistive technology, inadequate policy execution, a shortage of sign language interpreters, and societal misunderstandings regarding their abilities. To surmount these difficulties, participants employed tactics that included leaning on family and friends, utilizing mobile apps, and championing inclusive communication services. The results indicate that people with hearing and speech impairments primarily seek information about education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and social participation. Digital platforms, community networks, and specialized institutions were acknowledged as preferred sources of information; however, accessibility remains a significant challenge. The lack of assistive technology, insufficient policy implementation, a scarcity of sign language interpreters, and societal misconceptions about their capabilities represent major barriers to accessing information. In order to overcome these challenges, participants used strategies that involved relying on their social circles, taking advantage of mobile applications, and advocating for inclusive communication services.
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