Factors influencing grade 1 school placement and subsequent changes in school placement of learners with cochlear implants

[摘要] Over the past decade an increasing number of learners with cochlear implants have beenplaced in mainstream settings in South Africa (Müller & Wagenfeld, 2003). The aim ofthe present study was to describe possible factors that influence the initial grade 1 schoolplacement as well as subsequent changes in placement of learners with cochlear implants.Data collection consisted of a retrospective record review of the children implanted at theTygerberg Hospital-University of Stellenbosch Cochlear Implant Unit and aquestionnaire aimed at assessing parental perceptions regarding the basis of grade 1school placement for their children. The record review incorporated children implanted in1988, the year of inception of the unit and included the most recently implanted childrenwho have already started grade 1. Results of the 47 participants indicated that multiplefactors influenced the selection of grade 1 school placement. Recommendations byprofessionals and parental preference were the most important determinants in theselection process. The mainstreamed learners were implanted at a much younger age thanthe learners placed in special school settings and therefore had a longer duration ofimplant use at the start of grade 1. Subsequent to grade 1 placement, the number oflearners in mainstream placement, increased from 55% to 70%. The aspects identified inthe study could be utilised when counselling parents during the school placementdecision making process. Long term monitoring of the academic achievement of these learners needs to be an aim of future research.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University