DEVELOPMENT OF AN INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION TRAINING MODULE FOR PEOPLE WITH HEARING LOSS
Keywords:
Inclusive environmental education; hearing disability; sign language; accessibility; educational moduleAbstract
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/yc.v9i17.0787
Abstract
This study aimed to develop an inclusive Environmental Education module for individuals with hearing disabilities, addressing the limited availability of accessible pedagogical resources and the communication barriers that restrict their participation in learning processes. A mixed descriptive approach was applied, combining documentary review with empirical data collected through 21 surveys and 5 semi-structured interviews administered to individuals with hearing impairment, teachers, and professionals involved in inclusive education. The findings revealed recurring challenges related to the scarcity of visual materials, the lack of environmental terminology in Ecuadorian Sign Language, and the need for adapted pedagogical strategies. Participants expressed a high interest in learning environmental topics through clear images, short texts, subtitles, sign-language videos, and interactive activities. Based on these results, an educational module was designed comprising five thematic axes: water conservation, recycling, plastic reduction, clean energies, and biodiversity. The material integrates illustrations, visual glossaries, and sign-language representations, prioritizing conceptual clarity, communicational accessibility, and cultural relevance. Preliminary validation showed that the module enhances comprehension of environmental concepts and serves as a functional and meaningful learning tool for individuals with hearing disabilities. In conclusion, the proposal contributes to reducing historical educational gaps, strengthens inclusion in Environmental Education, and provides an innovative didactic resource that supports equity and effective participation.
Keywords: Inclusive environmental education; hearing disability; sign language; accessibility; educational module.
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