Background of the Study
Sign language is a critical communication tool for the Deaf community, yet access to quality sign language education remains limited in many regions. In Sokoto, Sokoto State, an interactive online platform is being designed to facilitate the learning of sign language by making it accessible, engaging, and user-friendly. The platform will incorporate video tutorials, interactive lessons, quizzes, and real-time feedback to support learners at various proficiency levels (Ibrahim, 2023). This digital solution aims to bridge the gap between traditional classroom instruction and the increasing demand for flexible, technology-driven educational resources. By leveraging multimedia elements such as high-definition video demonstrations and interactive animations, the platform provides a dynamic learning environment where users can practice sign language skills through simulated conversations and role-playing scenarios. Recent research has shown that interactive digital platforms significantly enhance language acquisition by accommodating diverse learning styles and allowing for repetitive practice, which is essential for mastering sign language (Chinwe, 2024). The platform will also feature a community forum, enabling learners to interact with each other, share experiences, and receive peer feedback, thereby fostering a supportive learning community. Moreover, the integration of adaptive learning algorithms will allow the platform to tailor lessons to individual progress, ensuring personalized instruction that addresses specific areas of difficulty. This initiative is particularly important in Sokoto, where geographical and resource constraints have historically limited access to specialized sign language education. The background of this study underscores the potential of digital platforms to democratize education and empower marginalized communities by providing accessible, high-quality learning resources.
Statement of the Problem
Traditional sign language instruction in Sokoto is often hampered by a lack of qualified instructors and limited accessibility, which restricts opportunities for learning among the Deaf community and interested individuals (Ibrahim, 2023). Conventional classroom settings do not always provide the interactive and immersive experiences needed to effectively learn sign language, resulting in low proficiency rates and communication barriers. Although digital technologies have the potential to revolutionize language education, the current digital resources available for learning sign language are often outdated, non-interactive, or not tailored to the needs of local learners. Additionally, factors such as limited internet connectivity, low digital literacy, and insufficient culturally relevant content further hinder effective learning. This study seeks to address these issues by designing and implementing an interactive online platform that offers a comprehensive curriculum for sign language learning. The platform will be evaluated for its effectiveness in improving language proficiency, learner engagement, and user satisfaction. Moreover, the study will investigate the technical and pedagogical challenges encountered during the platform’s deployment and provide recommendations to optimize its functionality and accessibility. The ultimate goal is to create an inclusive, adaptive educational tool that meets the needs of diverse learners, thereby enhancing communication skills and promoting greater social inclusion for the Deaf community in Sokoto.
Objectives of the Study
• To design and implement an interactive online platform for learning sign language.
• To evaluate the platform’s effectiveness in improving sign language proficiency and engagement.
• To identify challenges and propose strategies for optimizing digital sign language education.
Research Questions
• How does the online platform improve sign language learning outcomes?
• What levels of user engagement and satisfaction are achieved?
• What obstacles hinder effective implementation, and how can they be overcome?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides an innovative digital solution for enhancing sign language education, making learning accessible and interactive for all users in Sokoto (Ibrahim, 2023). The findings will inform educators and policymakers on effective strategies to integrate digital tools into language instruction, promoting inclusivity and improved communication for the Deaf community (Chinwe, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to the design, implementation, and evaluation of an online platform for learning sign language in Sokoto, Sokoto State. It focuses exclusively on digital learning and does not address in-person instruction methods.
Definitions of Terms
Interactive Online Platform: A web-based application that provides dynamic, user-driven learning experiences.
Sign Language: A visual language using hand gestures and facial expressions for communication, primarily used by the Deaf community.
Adaptive Learning: Educational methods that adjust to individual learners’ needs based on performance data.
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