Socialization of Visually Impaired Students through Electronic Media

Abstract

Persons with disabilities, particularly visually impaired need special attention and care. The social learning of visually impaired children can bring improvement in their lives and social institutions play a vital role for that purpose. This research aims to explore the contribution of electronic media in socialization of visually impaired students. Quantitative data were collected through closed-ended interview schedule from visually impaired students enrolled in special education schools, college and The Islamia University of Bahawalpur. Total 52 visually impaired students took part in the research. Results show that majority of visually impaired respondents use radio, television and internet as electronic media and mostly use for one hour to four hours. Electronic media have an effective role regarding extracurricular activities of visually impaired students, in their studies, language learning, communication skills and religious education. The social learning of visually impaired students through electronic media mainly includes entertainment, daily life spending, loneliness reduction, social activities, confidence building, awareness about society and social problems, events/celebrations, cultural values, current affairs, human rights, new trends and political activities. Respondents find electronic media useful and favour its use.