Utilization of Assistive Technology for Effective School Library Service Delivery to Students with Disabilities in Nigeria

Abstract

Disability is a part of the human condition. Everyone might experience disability either permanently or temporarily at some point in their life. It was estimated that about 25 million people live with one form of disability or more. This study explored the utilization of assistive technology for effective school library service delivery to students with disabilities in Nigeria. The study adopted descriptive survey design and used online structured questionnaires to collect data from school librarians. A total of 240 school librarians responded to the online survey across the 36 states in Nigeria. Data collected through online questionnaires were analyzed using percentage, mean and standard deviation. The study revealed that, there is inadequate availability of assistive technologies for effective school library service delivery to students with disabilities in Nigeria. Also, the extent of utilization of assistive technologies for effective school library service delivery was very low except for braille technology and Hearing Aids. The major challenges associated with the utilization of assistive technology for effective school library service delivery to students with disabilities in Nigeria are lack of support from the government, inadequate assistive technology in the school libraries, ranked together with inadequate funding of the school libraries; and unstable electric power supply. The study recommended; Provision of adequate assistive technology in the school libraries by the government. Training of both students with disabilities and school librarians in the use of assistive technology. Developing adequate interest in inclusive school library service by the government. Adequate funding of the school libraries by the government. Adequate support from the government through provision of material and human resources. Provision of adequate support service on the use of assistive technology by the manufacturers or vendors. Provision of stable electric power supply through installing solar power systems or purchasing standby generators.