Utilization of Library and Information Resources By Visually Impaired Primary School Pupils In Special Education Centres In South-East Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: The study investigated the utilization of library and information resources by visually impaired primary school pupils in special education centres in South-East Nigeria. Methodology: The study adopted descriptive survey research design. The population comprised 129 respondents, consisting of 125 visually impaired pupils and 4 librarians. The entire populations were studied. Two instruments used for data collection were focus group discussion and interview. Focus group discussion was used for the students while interview was used for the librarians. Data collected were analyzed qualitatively. Findings: The result of the study showed that visually impaired primary school pupils were not making use of available resources to a high extent, due to non-availability of resources in alternative formats. Implications: Not making use of available resources to a high extent, due to non-availability of resources in alternative formats shows that there is need to provide alternative format of information resources for the visually impaired pupils. Value/Originality: The study’s educational value rest on the recommendations that information resources should be provided in alternative formats of Braille, audio and digital in all the subjects taught in the special education centres and that the government should employ Braille typists since the older ones were retired.