Traffic Awareness and Safety Education among Children with Hearing Impairment

Abstract

The current study investigated the perception of children with hearing impairment in perceiving visible information in the traffic, paying attention to their knowledge of road signals, the difficulties of this area, and the adequacy of education in improving traffic awareness level. With a cross-sectional sample of 100 children (studying in both the government and private schools), the study was able to determine that, most of the respondents were well introduced regarding the comprehension of traffic signs and signals, but lacked in the comprehension of speed and distance of vehicles, rendering them more susceptible, on the road. Failure to hear important sounds such as horn and sirens caused a sense of insecurity and inconvenience particularly during crossing roads. In spite of this segment of children receiving help with the aid of assistive devices and safety training, the availability of such ranged and numerous of them indicated they needed more specialized aid. It was found by statistical analysis that gender and the extent of hearing impairment did not have significant impact on awareness of the traffic, however, the students of a private school and the students who use visual aids have a higher degree of awareness. The study puts a particular emphasis on the necessity to increase the visual support system, extend access to assistive technology, and offer specific safety education in order to ensure safer mobility and independence of children with HI.