School, Transition And Visual Arts Higher Education Experiences Of Students Who Are Deaf And Hard Of Hearing

Abstract

This study explored lived experiences of individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) in their educational journeys from school to visual arts higher education. In-depth interviews assisted by a qualified sign language interpreter were conducted with six individuals who are DHH and graduated from a visual arts higher education program in India. Thematic analysis with an inductive approach highlights participants' school, transition, and visual arts higher education experiences. The results indicate the struggle of students who are DHH to succeed in learning environments governed by the norms of people without hearing loss. The results indicate communication and literacy challenges in school, lack of transition planning for higher education and difficulties in adjusting to the hearing environment of higher education institution. In conclusion, focusing on the enrollment of students who are DHH in inclusive learning environments, a comprehensive approach to providing support services at all educational levels, collaborative efforts in transition planning, and strict policy enforcement is essential.