Challenges Faced by Music Learners with Cerebral Palsy: A Case of Joy Town Secondary School for the Physically Impaired, Kiambu County, Kenya. Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: The article describes the challenges facing music learners with cerebral palsy (CP) in Joy Town Secondary School for the physically impaired in Kiambu County Kenya.

Methods:The study employed a descriptive research design because it sought to get a clear picture of the situation, attitude and behavior of individual students with CP. The study considered an estimated target population of 197 students and 17 teachers. However it was noted that not all students suffered from CP, therefore a non-probabilistic sampling technique was applied to select a sample of 48 students for the study. The sample size also included 17 teachers. Data was collected through interviews and questionnaires. The data gathered was analyzed using qualitative approach and the findings presented using tables, charts and graphs where it was applicable. To compute the data the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis.

Results: Challenges faced by CP learners included: lack of appropriate music foundation for this group of students in the primary school, complex subject content considering their physical challenges, teachers, parent/their peers, attitude towards them pursuing music, a wide syllabus and limited time in teaching and learning music.

 Conclusion the challenges that faced music learners with CP affected their interest in music and this discourages them from pursuing the subject. However, with the various strategies put in place, they can be assisted.