PERCEIVED EFFECTIVENESS OF ORIENTATION & MOBILITY PROGRAMME AMONG PRE-SERVICE TEACHERS IN FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (SPECIAL), OYO

Abstract

One of the primary goals of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, is to prepare pre-service teachers as professional special education teachers, with specific focus on the Orientation and Mobility (O&M) programme for training in the Department of Education of Learners with Visual Impairment. This study aimed to determine the perceived effectiveness of the O&M programme among pre-service teachers at the college. Specific objectives included evaluating the level of knowledge and skills acquired and assessing the perceived effectiveness of the programme. A descriptive survey-type methodology was adopted, targeting 200-level and 300-level students in the Department of Education for Learners with Visual Impairment. A sample of 100 participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data was collected using the Perceived Effectiveness of Orientation and Mobility Programme Questionnaire (PETEOMPQ), which demonstrated high reliability (coefficient of 0.93) and validity (coefficient of 0.78). Responses were rated on a 4-point Likert scale. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics including frequency counts, mean, and standard deviation. Results indicated that pre-service teachers generally disagreed that they had acquired significant knowledge and skills in understanding and applying O&M principles (Mean: 2.10, SD: 0.934), assessing needs (Mean: 2.48, SD: 0.858), understanding safety protocols (Mean: 2.24, SD: 0.855), and using relevant tools and equipment (Mean: 2.13, SD: 0.647). Furthermore, they perceived the O&M programme as ineffective in preparing them to support learners with visual impairments. The programme was not seen as comprehensive (Mean: 2.18, SD: 0.902), enhancing practical skills (Mean: 2.35, SD: 0.583), or preparing them to create a safe and supportive environment (Mean: 2.16, SD: 0.636). The curriculum was also perceived as inadequate (Mean: 2.45, SD: 1.039). In conclusion, the study highlights significant areas for improvement in the O&M programme at the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo. Suggestions that covered the areas to be improved upon were highlighted: include updating and expanding the curriculum, increasing practical training, boosting teacher confidence, and conducting periodic evaluations to ensure the programme's relevance and effectiveness.