SIGHTED STUDENTS’ PROSOCIAL BEHAVIOUR TOWARDS ASSISTING PEERS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT IN TANZANIA INCLUSIVE SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Abstract

This study analysed sighted students’ prosocial behaviour towards assisting their peers with visual impairment (VI) in inclusive secondary schools in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania. An embedded single case study design was used. Seventy six respondents, consisting of teachers and students with and without VI participated in the study. Data was collected through semi-structured and face to face interviews, focus group discussions, and closed-ended questionnaires. Data was analysed through thematic analysis and presented in tables and quotations of participants’ actual words. Results have indicated differences in prosocial behaviours between sighted day-students and sighted boarding students with the latter being more prosocial as a result of altruistic and egoistic factors; having a positive attitude and due to the influence of religion and school administration . Similarities between sighted students and those with VI were linked to sighted students’ prosocial behaviour. The latter students’ attributions, and misunderstandings among students. determined their prosocial behaviour towards assisting their peers with VI. Awareness raising and sensitisation of members of the community, as well as replicating the study in inclusive and co-education schools for students with VI are recommended in the paper.