Abstract:

The aim of this mixed-method research study was to find out existing conditions, facilities, services and practices in Early Childhood Special Education for young children with deafness from ages 3-8 years. The population of study consisted of all Government Deaf & Defective Hearing Schools working throughout the Punjab province, their administrators, and teachers. The number of administrators participating in the study was 25. The sample size of teachers was 76 (females=55, males=21) selected from 25 districts of the Punjab through simple random sampling. One interview schedule for administrators and one questionnaire for teachers dealing with young children with deafness were developed. Data were collected in person by arranging meetings with administrators and teachers. Data gathered from administrators were analysed after transcribing and coding their responses. Emerging themes were derived. Major findings were reported. Recommendations to the Punjab Special Education Department were made and conclusions were drawn. Implications for teacher training programs in special education were discussed.

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