Enhancing Inclusive Education: The Impact of an Al-Integrated E-Learning Platform (Moodle) For Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students in Rwanda's Secondary Schools
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70619/vol5iss3pp43-57Keywords:
Inclusive education, deaf education, e-learning, artificial intelligence, sign language translation, accessibility, Moodie, RwandaAbstract
This research explores the development and implementation of an Al-integrated e-learning platform (Moodle) designed to enhance inclusive education for deaf and hard-of-hearing students in Rwanda's secondary schools. Despite Rwanda's commitment to inclusive education, significant gaps remain in providing accessible education for students with hearing impairments, including insufficient specialized schools and a shortage of sign language interpreters. The study proposes a hybrid solution combining web-based and embedded systems to bridge these communication gaps. The Al-powered platform, dubbed "D-Moodle," translates spoken language into subtitles and sign language using avatar-based technology, providing real-time accessible educational content. Through a mixed-methods approach incorporating surveys, interviews, and observations across selected schools including Hope TSS, Nyabihu School for Deaf, and GS Gitebe, the research evaluates the effectiveness of the proposed platform. Findings indicate that the platform significantly enhances learning experiences by addressing key barriers such as the scarcity of trained sign language interpreters and limited access to digital resources. The system demonstrates positive impacts on student engagement, communication, and academic performance while reducing the socioeconomic burden associated with specialized education. Content adaptation strategies, focusing on multimedia integration, interactive learning activities, and personalized learning pathways. The research concludes that Al-integrated e learning significantly improves educational accessibility for students with hearing impairments, contributing to Rwanda's inclusive education goals. Recommendations include continued investment in assistive technologies, teacher training, and infrastructure development to fully integrate digital solutions into Rwanda's education system.
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