Needs analysis for graphic design learning module based on technology & learning styles of deaf students

• Main Authors: Zainuddin Ibrahim, Norlidah Alias, Abu Bakar Nordin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2016-12-01
• Series: Cogent Education
• Subjects: ict; graphic design; technology; learning styles; deaf; learning module
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2016.1178364

The field of Information Communication Technology has offered a promising future for deaf students. Web design, animation, and multimedia application design are a branch of graphic design area, which aim to aid their learning visually. However, most of the technical terms cannot be interpreted in Malaysian sign language. Moreover, the development of the existing curriculum is not geared in catering needs of deaf students and not tailored to their learning styles. With the development of technology, learning for deaf students could be improved. However, previous studies only focused on language development and there is meager research on curriculum development and teaching in the field of graphic design. Therefore, this study was designed to obtain the views of students on the learning needs of graphic design module based on technology and learning styles of deaf students. Questionnaires were distributed to 58 students in special education schools and vocational colleges in Malaysia who majored in graphic design. Descriptive analysis of the data indicated that there is a need for a learning module and the reasons include difficulties in learning animation, different learning styles, communication of sign language in learning, and the efficacy of technology in aiding teaching deaf students.