Exploring the Lived Experience of Students with Hard of Hearing Impairments in Primary Schools at Ambo Town

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the lived experiences of students with hard of
hearing impairment (SWHHI) in Ambo town, Ethiopia. A phenomenological study was
employed for this study. Seven students with hard of hearing were purposefully selected and
interviewed. The qualitative analysis yielded three overarching themes: challenges of SWHHI,
support provision for SWHHI, and coping strategies. The findings of this study showed that
participants received support from home and school though not in a consistent and planned
manner. SWHHI faced challenges including, communication barriers, social isolation, and
community attitude related problem. Moreover, coping mechanisms such as self-help,
adaptation, social networking, and creating supportive learning environments, were emerged as
crucial strategies for overcoming academic challenges emanated from hearing loss. These
findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the lived experience of SWHHI and
offering implication for creating accessible and inclusive learning environment for SWHHI.