Comparative Analysis of Academic Achievement of Students with Hearing Aids and Without Hearing Aids in the Presence of Socio-Economic Barriers at Secondary Level

Abstract

In Pakistan, the socio-economic challenges faced by Hearing Impaired individual are enormous. Educated individuals are often not employed due to an inability to communicate. This study investigates how auditory processing, assistive device usage, and socio-economic factors influence academic performance among secondary students with and without hearing aids in District Bahawalpur. A mixed-method approach was employed with 167 students, and data was analyzed using SPSS. Findings indicate significant relationships between hearing support and educational outcomes. The study underscores the importance of inclusive strategies and interventions to address the unique academic needs of hearing-impaired students.

Keywords: Hearing Impairment, Academic Achievement, Assistive Devices, Socio-Economic Barriers, Secondary Education