Performance of slow learners under inclusive education with Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Abstract

Inclusive Education is scientifically viewed and accepted as an instrument to augment education of marginalized and disabled holistically and efficaciously. The provision of Inclusive Education not only enables and facilitates the education of individuals who are at risk in the society in the most appropriate and effective way but also integrates them socially under one umbrella. The presence of Slow Learners in almost every class is a reality which cannot be denied, but only matters their quantity. The Slow Learners are often overlooked and less talked about, being under a special category in good size than physically challenged and visually or hearing impaired including other disabled. In the present scenario of education, slow learners are better guaranteed for their education under the provision of inclusive education. With the advent of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), teaching and learning has become more interesting and effective. A plethora of researches have been undertaken and documented about the effect of ICT on performance/academic achievements of learners in the general population, but little could be noticed on slow learners. In the present study, an attempt has been made to analyze the efficacy of ICT on the academic performance of the slow learners. A total of 150 students of class VIII and IX standard who scored less than 40% marks consistently were selected randomly from 5 schools of Faizabad district in UP. An ICT Usage Scale (ICTUS) was developed and validated for the target group. Data were analyzed using Descriptive Statistics. It is revealed that the usage of ICT is significantly effective in better performance of the Slow Learners. The students of urban schools were found on a higher side in using ICT than rural students. Gender was not having any difference in usage of ICT. The study has been concluded with relevant suggestions.