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Opoku MP, Pearson E, Elhoweris H, Alhosani N, Mustafa A, Efstratopoulou M, Takriti R. Fidelity of family centered care model to early disability diagnosis and rehabilitation in the United Arab Emirates. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301094. [PMID: 38574099 PMCID: PMC10994312 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of parents in supporting early intervention for young children with disabilities is critical. Indeed, models of family centered care (FCC), which emphasis strong partnerships between health professionals and families in disability health services delivery are now widely associated with best practice. While FCC is consistently argued to be an appropriate model for disability service delivery, its utilization is limited primarily to Western countries such as Australia and the United States. Countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have prioritized early childhood development and are thus in search of best practices for delivery of early intervention for children and their families. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore the appropriateness of the FCC model in disability service delivery in the UAE. This study was conducted from the perspectives of health professionals who are involved in disability diagnosis, referral and ongoing support for families and children with disabilities. METHOD A total of 150 health professionals were recruited from health facilities, rehabilitation centers and schools in the Emirates of Abu Dhabi. The 27-item Measure of Process of Care for Service Providers (MPOC-SP) was used for data collection. The data were subjected to confirmatory factor analysis to confirm applicability of the model to this context. Multivariate analysis of variance and moderation analysis were also conducted, to ascertain the relationship between participants' satisfaction levels with their ability to diagnose, refer and provide on-going support and their likelihood of practicing key components of FCC. RESULT Computation of confirmatory factor analysis provided support for applicability of the MPOC-SP in the UAE context. Further inspection showed moderate to large correlations between the four components of FCC measured by MPOC-SP, providing further support for utilization of FCC in disability health service delivery in the UAE. CONCLUSION The study concludes with a call to policymakers in the UAE to consider developing disability health policy based on key components of FCC. This could be supplemented by development of training modules on FCC to upskill health professionals involved in disability diagnosis and rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Department of Special and Gifted Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Emma Pearson
- Curriculum & Methods of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Froebel Department of Primary and Early Childhood Education, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Hala Elhoweris
- Department of Special and Gifted Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Najwa Alhosani
- Curriculum & Methods of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ashraf Mustafa
- Department of Special and Gifted Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Maria Efstratopoulou
- Department of Special and Gifted Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rachael Takriti
- Curriculum & Methods of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Opoku MP, Nketsia W, Wisdom MK, Amponteng M. Have we bothered to ask? Exploration of the attitude of teachers toward participating in inclusive education research. BMC Res Notes 2024; 17:92. [PMID: 38549130 PMCID: PMC10979547 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-024-06755-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The importance of research cannot be overemphasized. Research findings serve as a guide for the enactment of development policies and legislation. However, not all members of the target population willingly participate in a study. The current study explored the reasons why some individuals refused to partake in inclusive education research in a developing country, Ghana. The journaling helped to capture the voices of 87 participants who refused to take part in a larger inclusive education survey study. RESULTS The study found that the participants did not take part in the research because of reasons such as lack of financial gain, bad experience with previous research, lack of direct benefit, and lack of time. The findings of the study and its implication for policymaking in Ghana and research studies in sub-Saharan Africa are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Department of Special and Gifted Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mprah Kwadwo Wisdom
- Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, Department of Health Promotion and Disability Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Pearson E, Opoku MP. 'From my world to yours…': exploring the availability of social networks among parents from culturally diverse backgrounds caring for children with developmental disabilities in Australia. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2024; 29:386-397. [PMID: 37357406 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2229242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports findings from an ethnographic study of families from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) families in Australia caring for children with disability. The study aimed to contribute insights into the unique experiences, challenges and supports that characterise experiences of families of a child with disability living in a country where the mainstream culture is different from their own. Four families from different cultural backgrounds participated in the study over a period of nine months. During this time, they participated in a series of semi-structured interviews during which they shared their encounters with formal early intervention services and reflected on important informal supports. Findings presented here indicate three key areas associated with accessing informal supports that can pose challenges for families who hold values that are different from those of the dominant culture: lack of social support; cultural adaptations, and socialization problems and coping strategies. The findings indicate that formal services could ameliorate feelings of social isolation by enabling parents to access informal supports such as parenting groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Pearson
- Curriculum and Method of Instruction (CEDU), College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Opoku MP, Elhoweris H, Alhosani N, Mustafa A, Alkhateri T, Nketsia W. Factors influencing the intention of trainee special education teachers to integrate assistive technology into teaching students with disabilities in the United Arab Emirates. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22736. [PMID: 38125551 PMCID: PMC10731060 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Technology has been incorporated into the educational systems of many countries as a teaching and learning tool. Contemporary discourse has focused on how to prepare teachers to utilise technology in their teaching practice. Although most pre-service elementary school teachers in the United Arab Emirates are women, studies have not yet investigated their acceptance of or preparedness to use technology in the classroom. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate whether the training provided to pre-service special education teachers equips them with sufficient skills to support students with disabilities. The present study used the technology acceptance model (TAM) as a theoretical lens to examine the factors that impact female pre-service special education teachers' intention to incorporate assistive technology (AT) in teaching students with disabilities. A survey based on TAM was used to collect data from 138 participants and test four study hypotheses. Regarding data analysis, SPSS and AMOS version 28 software were used to conduct exploratory factor, confirmatory factor and path analyses. Two of the four hypotheses were supported. The results provide support for the four-factor TAM structure, with two predictors - perceived ease of use and computer self-efficacy - supporting pre-service teachers' intention to use AT to teach students with disabilities in the classroom. Teacher educators and policymakers should consider the TAM construct when preparing pre-service teachers to effectively support all students. Specifically, teacher development and stakeholder engagement with AT resources are needed to optimise the learning of children with disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hala Elhoweris
- College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Najwa Alhosani
- College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ashraf Mustafa
- College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Thara Alkhateri
- College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Kofi Opoku E, Peprah Opoku M, Frimpomaa L, Nketsia W, Kwadwo Wisdom M, Akoto Y, Safi M. Understanding adults with communication disorders in Ghana: Accessing rehabilitation and support systems. Soc Sci Med 2023; 336:116231. [PMID: 37774531 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Communication is pivotal to our societal experiences; therefore, the onset of a communication disorder will negatively affect an individual's social capabilities. However, in sub-Saharan African countries, there is limited public discourse on the development of individuals with communication disorders. From the perspective of critical disability theory, there have been few opportunities for adults with communication disorders to share stories about their experiences and their developmental progress. A semi-structured interview guide was designed to collect data from 23 adults with communication disorders recruited from 10 communities in three districts in a region in Ghana. The findings are thematized under the following criteria: diagnosis and rehabilitation, familial support and impact on development. The study concludes with an invitation to policymakers to prioritize the rehabilitation needs of individuals with communication disorders and a discussion on additional study implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Lilian Frimpomaa
- Department of Sociology and Social Work, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education; University of Western Sydney, Australia
| | - Mprah Kwadwo Wisdom
- Department of Disability and Education, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - Yaw Akoto
- Department of Educational Studies and Leadership, University of Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Mohammed Safi
- Department of Speech Language Pathology, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab Emirates
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Opoku MP, Belbase S, Nsowah FA, Yeboah K, Nketsia W, Mohamed A, Agyei-Okyere E, Amponteng M, Saah R, Safi M. Coronavirus Disease Vaccination Among Persons With Disabilities: Understanding Vaccine Perceptions and Hesitancy in Ghana. Linacre Q 2023; 90:452-471. [PMID: 37974567 PMCID: PMC10638957 DOI: 10.1177/00243639231178626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been felt globally and in all spheres of life. Developing vaccines was an important milestone in ensuring the protection of lives, but there are concerns about vaccine availability in sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries. The living conditions of persons with disabilities, in particular, in SSA societies have been described as deplorable and unsustainable, and they are at risk of discrimination. Such persons appear to be already struggling to obtain other basic services, and the extent of vaccine accessibility to this population remains unknown. This study aimed to assess the perceptions of persons with disabilities in Ghana of COVID-19 vaccines. Between July 2021 and December 2021, 336 persons with disabilities (hearing, visual, and physical) were recruited from two regions in Ghana. The attitude toward the COVID-19 vaccination scale was adapted for this study. The results showed that persons with disabilities were ambivalent toward vaccination, and differences were observed between participant groups. The background variables found to influence attitude were age, place of residence, educational qualification, gender, and COVID-19 acquisition status. The study concludes with a clarion call to policymakers to expedite public education for persons with disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shashidhar Belbase
- Curriculum and Method of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Kwame Yeboah
- Department of Special Education, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ahmed Mohamed
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Elvis Agyei-Okyere
- Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Reuben Saah
- Library Section, Abetifi Presbyterian College of Education, Abetifi, Ghana
| | - Mohammed Safi
- Department of Speech and Language Pathology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Opoku MP, Elhoweris H, Amponteng M, Nketsia W, Torgbenu EL, Saah R. Pre-service healthcare professionals attitudes and self-efficacy towards individuals with intellectual disability in Ghana. BMC Med Educ 2023; 23:714. [PMID: 37770888 PMCID: PMC10540369 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04697-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intellectual disability (ID) involves impairment of general mental abilities, restricting the participation of individuals in conceptual, social and practical activities. Consequently, rehabilitation services are critical in efforts towards promoting the social and educational inclusion of persons with ID. However, the preparedness of health professionals in performing such a role depends on their perceptions of individuals with ID. Ajzen's theory of planned behaviour was used as theoretical framework to understand the relationship between the perceived attitude and self-efficacy of healthcare students towards persons with ID. METHOD A cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthcare students (N = 328) in a Ghanaian university. The Community Living Attitude Scale for ID(CLAS-ID) and General Self-efficacy (GSE) Scale were employed to assess their attitudes and self-efficacy towards people with ID respectively. The data were analysed using SPSS and AMOS and were subjected to a t-test, ANOVA, correlation and regression. RESULT The healthcare students were ambivalent about both self-efficacy and attitudes towards persons with ID, and there was correlation between attitudes and self-efficacy. Attitudes and self-efficacy also varied across the demographic characteristics of the respondents including age, having a relative with ID, level of study, religion, and programme of study. CONCLUSION The study underscores the necessity for healthcare curriculum reform and provides corresponding recommendations. The study emphasizes the importance of enhancing healthcare students' understanding of ID, changing their attitudes, and bolstering their self-efficacy. This is crucial to foster positive attitudes, confidence in providing support to individuals with ID, and raising awareness within the broader community. To achieve this, health educators are encouraged to incorporate exposure to individuals with ID into healthcare students' training, along with more structured field experiences designed to increase their contact and interaction with individuals with ID. Such initiatives would enable students to better understand the uniqueness and requirements of individuals with ID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, P. O. Box 15551, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Hala Elhoweris
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, P. O. Box 15551, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Eric Lawer Torgbenu
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
- University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Reuben Saah
- Abetifi Presbyterian College of Education, Library Section, Abetifi, Ghana
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Safi M, Alzyod DM, Opoku MP, Agamy YE. Tongue strength and endurance among typically developing children and children with idiopathic speech sound disorders in the United Arab Emirates. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289400. [PMID: 37523398 PMCID: PMC10389734 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tongue strength and endurance in adults have been extensively studied, but data on these parameters in young children remain largely unavailable. AIMS This study aimed to collect normative objective tongue strength and endurance data from a pediatric population in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and to examine the effects of age and sex on these parameters. METHODS This normative study included a total of 65 typically developing (TD; n = 36) children and children with idiopathic speech sound disorders (ISSDs; n = 29). The participants were assigned to four age groups (range: 3-8 years) and stratified by sex. Data on their tongue strength and endurance were collected using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument. RESULTS Tongue strength scores and endurance time increased with age in both the TD and ISSD groups. Sex had no statistically significant effects on tongue strength or endurance in either group. Furthermore, tongue strength and endurance time scores were higher in the TD group than in the ISSD group. CONCLUSIONS The data obtained in this study would add important normative data to the database of standardized measurements for maximal strength and endurance scores in the pediatric population of the UAE. Future research is encouraged to collect additional data that can help healthcare professionals objectively evaluate children with feeding, swallowing, and speech sound production difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Safi
- Department of Speech Language Pathology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | | | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Yasser E Agamy
- General Physician and Clinical Tutor, Thumbay University Hospital Complex, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
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Opoku MP, Anwahi N, Belbase S, Shah H, Alkateri T, Moustafa A. Accessibility of nutritional services for children with autism spectrum disorder in the United Arab Emirates: Insights from special education teachers and parents. Res Dev Disabil 2023; 138:104521. [PMID: 37148575 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Goal 2 of United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals exhorts countries to provide guidelines on better nutrition for all children. In response, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government designed a national nutrition framework to encourage better eating habits. However, large body of literature has reported that children with ASD are at high risks of malnutrition and poor eating habits. Yet, in the UAE and other contexts, there is limited research on accessibility of nutritional services to adults in the lives of children with ASD. AIMS As parents and teachers spend the most time with children with ASD, this study sought to understand their perceptions of the availability of nutritional services for such children in the UAE. METHOD AND PROCEDURES Penchansky and Thomas' (1981) health access theory served as the theoretical framework; its five tenets (geography, finance, accommodation, resources and acceptability) informed the design of a semi-structured interview guide. Data were collected from 21 participants, comprising 6 parents and 15 teachers of children with ASD. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS Thematic analysis revealed that participants perceived accommodation, acceptability, and human resource availability as barriers to accessibility. However, geographical and financial accessibility were not identified as challenges. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The study calls for health policymakers to formalise nutritional services as an integrated part of the UAE health system, while also extending services to children with ASD. CONTRIBUTION This study makes a substantial contribution to the literature. First, it addresses the needs for nutritional services for children with ASD. There is a limited body of knowledge on whether children with ASD have access to the requisite nutrition for development This study sheds light on an area that has received limited scholarly insight. Second, it adds to the usage of health access theory in studies on nutritional services for children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Noora Anwahi
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shashidhar Belbase
- Curriculum and Method of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Haseena Shah
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Thara Alkateri
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ashraf Moustafa
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Efstratopoulou M, Opoku MP, El Howeris H, AlQahtani O. Assessing children at risk in the United Arab Emirates: Validation of the Arabic version of the Motor Behaviour Checklist (MBC) for use in primary school settings. Res Dev Disabil 2023; 136:104489. [PMID: 36958128 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Motor Behaviour Checklist (MBC) was designed to assist classroom and physical education (PE) teachers in assessing their students' motor-related behaviours. Studies on identification and behaviour problems among children in classrooms are rare in the Arabian context, including in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). AIM This study examines the structural and discriminant validity of the Arabic version of the MBC and assesses the effects of gender, age and type of disability on children's behaviour. METHODS Three groups of children (N = 304) aged 6-12 years were rated by their teachers based on 59 items in the Arabic version of the MBC. RESULTS The results of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, as well as a configural invariance analysis of the data, indicated that the Arabic version of the MBC is a valid measurement for assessing behavioural problems in children in the UAE. The results of the multivariate analysis of variance showed gender differences among the children rated by their teachers; the boys in the sample scored higher on all problem scales. The results also showed differences according to the type of disability: children with autism spectrum disorder and attention disorder hyperactivity disorder scored higher than their typically developing peers on most of the problem scales. CONCLUSION The findings of the study provide theoretical support for the use of MBC as a valid instrument to assess children at risk in the UAE. The implications of the study and recommendations for tailored interventions in children with diverse needs and characteristics are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Efstratopoulou
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hala El Howeris
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab Emirates
| | - Omniah AlQahtani
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab Emirates
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Alhosani N, Alsheikh N, Opoku MP, Takriti R, Aljneibi NM, Elhoweris H, Garces-Bacsal RM. Affordances as experienced by university faculties during and after the sudden transition to online teaching. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13159. [PMID: 36713628 PMCID: PMC9867559 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The ravaging effect of COVID-19 has been felt in all spheres of life. While countries are easing their restrictions, the remnants of COVID on education remain, with most universities formally embracing online teaching. Faculty have had to deal with this sudden and enduring transition to online teaching. Although some developments have been made with online education, enormous challenges are simultaneously reported in the literature. This mixed-method study aims to assess the essence of a faculty's bionetwork of lived experience after the sudden shift to online teaching due to the pandemic. Affordance theory was used as a theoretical lens to study the benefits, challenges, and opportunities associated with online education during and post-COVID. The study data comes from faculty members at one institution (n = 170) and follow-up interviews with a smaller subset of participants from the same pool (n = 10). Path analysis and mediation analysis revealed significant differences between the participants based on nationality and gender. While the findings supported two hypotheses, the third hypothesis was not supported. Overall, the findings showed both convergence and divergence between the qualitative and quantitative data. The study incorporates recommendations for online teaching, faculty well-being, and further research based on the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najwa Alhosani
- Curriculum and Method of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Negmeldin Alsheikh
- Curriculum and Method of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates,Corresponding author
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rachel Takriti
- Curriculum and Method of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noof M. Aljneibi
- Emirates Centre for Happiness Research, UAE University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hala Elhoweris
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Abdat R, Opoku MP, Safi M, Al Harballeh S, Garces-Bacsal RM. Virtual Training on Stress Management for the Mothers of Children with Disabilities in the United Arab Emirates. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:1450. [PMID: 36674207 PMCID: PMC9858997 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Parenting children with disabilities has consistently been reported to be associated with stress, and even more so among mothers who are primary caregivers. In non-Western contexts such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), there is a dearth of research on maternal mental health in relation to raising children with disabilities and related mitigation strategies. During the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021), the Federal Government of the UAE used the Save the Child's Stress Checklist to assess the stress levels of 635 mothers who were raising children with disabilities in the northern part of the country. In the pre-test, an estimated 6% (36/635) of the mothers were found to be experiencing high levels of stress. Consequently, virtual stress management training was conducted, and 12 of the 36 mothers completed the full training. Wilcoxon's ranked test showed a reduction in their total, physical, emotional and cognitive stress at the end of the training. This study demonstrates the pressing need for ongoing training programmes to improve the mental health of mothers of children with disabilities in the UAE and similar contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawhi Abdat
- Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities Department, Ministry of Community Development Dubai, Dubai P.O. Box 17781, United Arab Emirates
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammed Safi
- Department of Speech Language Pathology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Siham Al Harballeh
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rhoda Myra Garces-Bacsal
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
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Mprah WK, Duorinaah J, Opoku MP, Nketsia W, Amponteng M. Knowledge and attitudes of deaf persons towards safe abortion services in Ghana. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281995. [PMID: 37071643 PMCID: PMC10112808 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deafness refers to partial or total loss of hearing, which, if not appropriately accommodated, may interfere with day-to-day living experiences. Deaf people encountered challenges in their efforts to access essential services, such as health care. While some attention has been given to general access to reproductive health services, less research has focused on the experiences of deaf women and girls when accessing safe abortion services. With unsafe abortion being a major cause of maternal deaths among women in developing countries, this study attempted to explore the perception of deaf women and girls in Ghana towards safe abortion services. OBJECTIVE The main aim of this study was to understand the perception and awareness safe abortion services among deaf women and girls in Ghana. In doing this, the contributors towards unsafe abortion practices among deaf women and girls were gathered. METHOD Penchansky and Thomas' accessibility to health care theory availability, accessibility, accommodation/adequacy, affordability, and acceptability guides this study. A semi-structured interview guide based on components of the theory was used for data collection from 60 deaf persons. RESULTS The components of the theory were used as a priori themes that guided the data analysis. The results showed challenges associated with the indicators of health access. For instance, in terms of availability, it was revealed that deaf women had little knowledge about existing laws on safe abortion in Ghana. In relation to acceptability, deaf women were highly opposed to abortion for cultural and religious reasons. However, there was consensus that safe abortion could be conducted under certain conditions. CONCLUSION The results of the study have implications for policymaking aimed at attaining equitable access to reproductive health care for deaf women. The need for policymakers to expedite public education and incorporate the needs of deaf women in reproductive health policies, as well as other study implications, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wisdom Kwadwo Mprah
- Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, Department of Health Promotion and Disability Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Juventus Duorinaah
- Juventus Duorinaah, Ghana National Association of the Deaf, Accra-North, Ghana
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
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Oginni SO, Opoku MP, Nketsia W. Crisis at the intersection of four countries: healthcare access for displaced persons in the Lake Chad Basin region. Ethn Health 2022; 27:1698-1717. [PMID: 34182835 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2021.1947471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
For a decade, the Lake Chad Basin (LCB) region, which is at the intersection of four countries and home to ethnic groups in Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Nigeria, has been occupied by Boko Haram. The lax borders and deprivation in the region contributed to the emergence and expansion of Boko Haram's insurgency. While much is known about the human casualties of the invasion, little is known about the accessibility of healthcare for the displaced persons. This qualitative study adopted Penchansky and Thomas' ([1981]. "The Concept of Access: Definition and Relationship to Consumer Satisfaction." Medical Care 19 (2): 127-140) theory of access as its conceptual framework (with the following components: geographical accessibility, availability, financial accessibility, acceptability and accommodation) to explore the experiences of the displaced persons in the LCB with respect to access to healthcare. One-on-one interviews (n = 51) and two focus group discussions (n = 16) were conducted with 67 refugees and internally displaced persons recruited from nine host communities in Nigeria and Cameroon, who shared their perceptions of their healthcare access. The displaced persons faced barriers to their access to the healthcare in the LCB. It was found that for each of the components of the theory of access, the study participants encountered barriers to healthcare access. For example, with regard to financial accessibility (affordability), poverty was identified as the main personal barrier to the displaced persons' healthcare access, and with regard to acceptability, it was communication that was reported to be a barrier. The limitations of the study, the recommendations for future research and the implications of the findings are discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
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Moustafa A, Opoku MP, Belbase S. Using tactile imagery to teach geometry to students with visual impairments in the United Arab Emirates. Res Dev Disabil 2022; 129:104309. [PMID: 35868199 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2022.104309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Learning geometry is difficult for students with visual impairments (VIs). However, tactile imagery, the process of constructing mental images of physical objects with certain shapes, may help them make sense of geometrical shapes. Thus, discussions have centred on interventions to promote the participation of students with VIs in the learning of shapes. This study explored tactile imagery connecting physical touch to memory as an approach to teaching shapes to students with VIs. Eleven students, five with VIs and six sighted students took part in this experimental design study. A tactile imagery test and intervention lessons were developed for this study. Four tactile imagery domains (tactile discrimination, tactile memory 2D, tactile memory 3D and pattern recall), each made up of 10 tests, guided the design of the tests and training lessons. The students' scores from the pre-test and post-test were subjected to mean computations, Mann-Whitney U tests and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The post-test results revealed that students with VIs performed better than their sighted peers. The study concludes with a discussion of the need for teacher educators to consider using tactile imagery as a way of teaching geometry to students with VIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Moustafa
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, the United Arab Emirates
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, the United Arab Emirates.
| | - Shashidhar Belbase
- Curriculum and Method of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, the United Arab Emirates
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Safi MF, Alshamsi M, Opoku MP. Parenting children with autism spectrum disorder in the United Arab Emirates: Exploring perceptions towards using the picture exchange communication system to enhance the development of children with autism spectrum disorder. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:229. [PMID: 36180961 PMCID: PMC9524310 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00932-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an interplay between biological, social and environmental factors that impact the development of individuals. However, core characteristics are social, communication and behaviour challenges that restrict children’s participation in society. Consequently, there are discussions regarding the need for society to develop interventions that are geared towards promoting the participation of children with ASD in societies. While the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) helps lessen the biological characteristics of children with ASD, its impact has rarely been explored in non-western societies, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Objectives The instant study’s purpose was to explore parents’ perceptions of the effectiveness of the PECS on the communicative, social and academic developments of children with ASD in UAE. Method The Perception Towards Picture Exchange Communication Scale (PTPECS) was developed to collect data from the participants. The newly developed tool was piloted and validated before being implemented. The participants included 73 caregivers of children with ASD in the UAE. Results The following non-parametric tests were conducted: Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and spearman rho. The results revealed that the parents were generally positive about employing the PECS to support the development of their children with ASD. There was also a positive association between using the PECS and improving communication, learning and social skills in children with ASD. Conclusion It is imperative that educators and policymakers envisage parents as equal partners in providing rehabilitation services to children with ASD. Various implications, such as the need for continual engagement and empowering parents of children with ASD, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed F Safi
- Speech Language Pathology College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mariam Alshamsi
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, P. O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, P. O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates.
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Mprah WK, Opoku MP, Duorinaah J, Nketsia W. Level of satisfaction and sexual and reproductive health needs of deaf persons in Ghana: a sequential explanatory mixed method study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1152. [PMID: 36096825 PMCID: PMC9469610 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08515-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The intersection between deafness and culture in sub-Saharan African contexts such as Ghana has culminated in restricted access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. While some attention has been given to the barriers faced by deaf persons in accessing SRH services, discussion of their needs and satisfaction with SRH services is at an embryonic stage. This lends support to the use of sequential mixed-method study design to assess the level of satisfaction and SRH needs of deaf persons. Methods This study was guided by explanatory sequential mixed-method study design. Thus, a two-phase data collection approach was adopted. In Phase I, a 32-item questionnaire with 16 items each for satisfaction regarding SRH services and SRH needs, was used for data collection from 288 deaf persons recruited from 3 of the 16 regions in Ghana. The data were subjected to the following computations: means, t-tests, analysis of variance, correlations, and multiple regression. In Phase II, a semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data from 60 participants who were drawn from the earlier pool. The interviews were subjected to thematic analysis. Results The results showed of correlation and multiple analyses showed a small relationship and significant contribution of needs in the variance of satisfaction. Also, there was a convergence between both the qualitative and quantitative data as participants confirmed the lack of consideration given to the needs of deaf persons regarding SRH service provisions. Conclusion Deaf persons who took part in this study were unsatisfied with SRH services due to barriers such as sign language interpreters and inaccessible information. Consequently, they expressed the need for preferred mode of communication and expedition of awareness creation on SRH. The study findings warrant the need for policymakers to inculcate the needs of deaf person in SRH services to improve access and thus, enhance satisfaction. For instance, recommendations such as the training of health professionals in the use of sign language could be considered in future SRH policy and other implications, are discussed.
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Nketsia W, Mprah WK, Opoku MP, Juventus D, Amponteng M. Achieving universal reproductive health coverage for deaf women in Ghana: an explanatory study of knowledge of contraceptive methods, pregnancy and safe abortion practices. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:954. [PMID: 35897008 PMCID: PMC9327200 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08323-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The first world conference on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in 1994 helped create the awareness that reproductive health is a human right. Over the years, attempts have been made to extend services to all persons; however, lapses persist in service provision for all in need. Recently, countries have been encouraged to target minority groups in their reproductive health service provision. However, studies have rarely attempted to develop deeper insights into the experiences of deaf men and women regarding their knowledge of SRH. The purpose of this study was to develop an in-depth understanding of the knowledge of deaf persons regarding services such as knowledge of contraceptive methods, pregnancy and safe abortion practices. Methods A sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach was adopted for this study. In the first quantitative phase, 288 deaf persons recruited from three out of the 16 regions in Ghana participated in this study. They completed a 31-item questionnaire on the main issues (knowledge of contraceptive methods, pregnancy and safe abortion practices) addressed in this study. In the second phase, a semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data from 60 participants who took part in the first phase. The key trend emerging in the first phase underpinned the interview guide used for the data collection. While the quantitative data were subjected to the computation of means, t-tests, analyses of variance, correlations and linear regressions to understand the predictors, the in-depth interviews were analysed using the thematic method of analysis. Results The results showed a convergence between the quantitative and qualitative data. For instance, the interview material supported the initial findings that deaf women had little knowledge of contraceptive methods. The participants offered reasons explaining their inability to access services and the role of religion in their understanding of SRH. Conclusion The study concludes by calling on policymakers to consider the needs of deaf persons in future SRH policies. The study limitations and other implications for future policymaking are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Wisdom Kwadwo Mprah
- Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, Department of Health Promotion and Disability Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, P. O. Box 15551, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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Safi M, Opoku MP, Alshamsi M, Abu-shariha AH. Comparative Study of the Perspectives on the Impact of a Culturally Responsive Picture Exchange Communication System for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder in the United Arab Emirates. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:841064. [PMID: 35573938 PMCID: PMC9099072 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.841064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a widely accepted way to develop the communication skills of children with developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the efficacy of PECS has been largely studied in Western societies and little research is available regarding its role in the development of children with ASD in a non-Western cultural context. The purpose of this study was to compare the parent and the practitioner perceptions of the use of PECS for children with ASD in the United Arab Emirates. Method A new scale made up of three subscales was used to collect the data from the parents and the practitioners who were either related to or working with a cohort of children with ASD. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and subjected to the computation of means, t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA), binary logistical regression, and two-way factorial ANOVA. Results The results showed uncertainty or neutrality among the parents and the practitioners toward the use of PECS. Variables such as age, years of experience using PECS, and gender were noted to influence perceptions of PECS. Conclusion The need for policymakers to consider developing regular training for parents and practitioners on the use of PECS and other implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Safi
- Speech–Language Pathology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mariam Alshamsi
- Special Education Department, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmad Hassan Abu-shariha
- Special Education Department, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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20
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Opoku MP, Agyei-Okyere E, Nketsia W, Torgbenu EL, Kumi EO. Perceived self-efficacy of students and its influence on attitudes and knowledge about HIV/AIDS in Ghana. Int J Health Plann Manage 2021; 37:755-769. [PMID: 34697830 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV) and its accompanying acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) have long been a public health threat due to the high death toll and the various effects on individuals and societies. Unfortunately, in developing countries such as Ghana, persons living with HIV/AIDS are victims of discrimination and rejection and are often excluded from social activities. Consequently, there is a need for mitigation strategies aimed at reducing the spread of the disease. Indeed, in human society, beliefs are fundamental to understanding people's intentions towards a given phenomenon. The purpose of this study was to assess students' perceived self-efficacy, attitude towards and knowledge about HIV/AIDS. In this study, Bandura's self-efficacy theory was used as a framework to assess the relationship between students' perceived self-efficacy, attitude towards and knowledge about HIV/AIDS. A total of 342 students of at least 15 years old were recruited from junior and senior high schools and a public university to complete two scales: the general self-efficacy and attitude and knowledge about HIV/AIDS scales. While there was a positive correlation among self-efficacy, attitude and knowledge, attitude and knowledge combined to predict self-efficacy. The limitations of the study, recommendations for future research and policy implications are discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Elvis Agyei-Okyere
- Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, University of Western Sydney, Australia
| | - Eric Lawer Torgbenu
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Health and Applied Sciences, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Opoku Kumi
- Special Education Department, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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21
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Opoku MP, Nketsia W, J-F, Mprah WK, Agyei-Okyere E, Safi M. The Interaction Between Typically Developing Students and Peers With Autism Spectrum Disorder in Regular Schools in Ghana: An Exploration Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Front Psychol 2021; 12:752569. [PMID: 34630258 PMCID: PMC8493289 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.752569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to assess the intention of typically developing peers towards learning in the classroom with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In developing countries, such as Ghana, the body of literature on the relationship between students with disabilities and typically developing peers has been sparsely studied. Using Ajzen's theory of planned behaviour as a theoretical framework for this study, 516 typically developing students completed four scales representing belief constructs, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural controls (self-efficacy), hypothesised to predict behavioural intention. The data were subjected to a t-test, analysis of variance, and structural equation modelling. The modelling confirmed the combining ability of attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural controls to predict intention. We conclude by revealing the need for policymakers to consider designing programmes aimed towards promoting social relationships between students with ASD and typically developing peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - J-F
- Faculty of Education, Crandall University, Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Wisdom Kwadwo Mprah
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Elvis Agyei-Okyere
- Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Mohammed Safi
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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22
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Opoku MP, Elhoweris H, Jiya AN, Ngoh NAP, Nketsia W, Kumi EO, Torgbenu EL. Cross-national study of communal attitudes toward individuals with intellectual disabilities in sub-Saharan Africa: Cameroon vs. Ghana. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257482. [PMID: 34582489 PMCID: PMC8478177 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An intellectual disability (ID) is characterized by a deficit in the functional, cognitive, and adaptive skills required for independent living. Due to the low cognitive capabilities of individuals with IDs, they have become victims of marginalization, exclusion, and denial of their fundamental rights to basic necessities in societies around the world. While efforts are being made to improve service provision to and acceptance of individuals with disabilities, the extent of communal acceptance and recognition of these individuals as equal members of society remains underexplored in sub-Saharan African countries such as Cameroon and Ghana. OBJECTIVE As attitudes toward individuals with IDs are pivotal in shaping national policies, this cross-national study examined communal attitudes toward persons with IDs in Cameroon and Ghana. METHOD The Community Living Attitude Scale for Intellectual Disabilities (CLAS-ID) was used to collect data from a total of 741 university students in the two countries. The validity of the scale was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis and principal component analysis. The association between the background variables and attitudes was examined using t-tests, analysis of variance, linear regression, and two-way factor analysis. RESULTS The results showed the validity of the CLAS-ID as a valid tool for measuring communal attitudes toward individuals with IDs in sub-Saharan Africa. The participants appeared ambivalent about attitude towards individuals with ID and other findings showed no association between attitudes and variables such as gender, relation, and contact with individuals with IDs. CONCLUSION We discuss the need for innovative approaches aimed at changing attitudes toward individuals with IDs in sub-Saharan Africa as well as other study implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hala Elhoweris
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alex Nester Jiya
- Institute of Governance, Humanities and Social Sciences, Pan African University, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Nlem Anne-Paule Ngoh
- Institute of Governance, Humanities and Social Sciences, Pan African University, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Eric Lawer Torgbenu
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
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Opoku MP, Torgbenu EL, J-F, Nketsia W, Mprah WK, Edusei AK. Living with HIV in Ghana: Disclosure of status and experiences of persons receiving antiretroviral therapy. Afr J AIDS Res 2021; 20:204-213. [PMID: 34517791 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2021.1964546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Barriers to treatment faced by people living with HIV (PLWH) have been well explored in the literature. Despite the importance of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the treatment of HIV and prevention of AIDS, in the Ghanaian context only about 32% of infected persons have access to treatment. This underscores a need to understand the experiences of PLWH receiving ART to provide baseline information for policymakers' efforts to increase access to treatment. This study captures the voices of PLWH who were receiving ART in Ghana. A total of 35 participants receiving treatment in a hospital setting (11 males, 24 females; mean age 38 years, age range 21-60 years) took part in semi-structured face-to-face interviews to discuss their opinions about the cause of their HIV infection and its impact on their lives. The study found that the participants were susceptible to discrimination in their communities and at health care facilities. Some participants experienced marriage breakdowns, unemployment, social isolation, and were unable to perform everyday chores and responsibilities. Concerted efforts to address the barriers to treatment faced by PLWH are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.,School of Education, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia
| | | | - J-F
- School of Education, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia.,Faculty of Education, Crandall University, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - William Nketsia
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Health and Applied Sciences, Ho, Ghana.,School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Wisdom Kwadwo Mprah
- Centre for Disability Rehabilitation Studies, Department of Health Promotion, Disability Studies and Education, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Anthony Kweku Edusei
- Centre for Disability Rehabilitation Studies, Department of Health Promotion, Disability Studies and Education, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Jiya AN, Opoku MP, Nketsia W, Dogbe JA, Adusei JN. Achieving Financial Inclusion for Persons With Disabilities: Exploring Preparedness and Accessibility of Financial Services for Persons With Disabilities in Malawi. Journal of Disability Policy Studies 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/10442073211027533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Deplorable living conditions among persons with disabilities and the need to improve their living conditions cannot be overemphasized. This has triggered international discussion on the need for deliberate social policies to bridge the poverty gap between persons with and without disabilities. In Malawi, expansion of financial services has been identified as an essential tool to accelerate economic and inclusive development. However, empirical studies are yet to explore the preparedness of financial institutions to extend their services to persons with disabilities. In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers from commercial banks in Malawi to understand their perspectives on extending financial services to persons with disabilities. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and a descriptive thematic analysis was performed. Although participants reiterated the need to provide persons with disabilities with financial services to improve their well-being, few initiatives have been undertaken to improve their participation. Particularly, participants stated that barriers, such as a lack of financial literacy and adaptive technologies, communication barriers, and high rates of unemployment, explained the reluctance of commercial banks to extend financial services to persons with disabilities. The limitations, recommendations for future research, and implications of the study for policymaking have been highlighted.
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Opoku MP, Nketsia W, Odame L, Agyei‐Okyere E. Predictors of the Attitudes of Preservice Teachers Toward Teaching Students With Down Syndrome in Regular Schools in Ghana. Journal of Policy and Practice in Intellectual Disabilities 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/jppi.12379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department United Arab Emirates University Al Ain United Arab Emirates
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, University of Western Sydney Sydney Australia
| | - Lois Odame
- School of Public Service and Governance, Ghana Institute of Management and Professional Studies Accra Ghana
| | - Elvis Agyei‐Okyere
- Department of Planning Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Kumasi Ghana
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Opoku MP, Nketsia W, Fianyi I, Laryea P. Inclusive education for students with sensory disabilities in Ghana: views of students with disabilities about availability of resources in regular schools. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2020; 17:687-694. [PMID: 32816582 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1807623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Inclusive education is a "revolutionary" educational concept which seeks to promote the participation of all students in the teaching and learning process. Although several countries have revised their education system to promote the learning of all students in the same classroom, there are persistent barriers to effective inclusive practices. Within this discourse, there is a scarcity of studies focussing solely on students' perspectives on resource availability. Due to the sizeable population of students with sensory disabilities in Ghana, this study sought to understand the perspectives of students with hearing (n = 74) and visual (n = 41) impairments on resource availability in regular schools. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 115 students with sensory disabilities were recruited from one special and two regular schools in Ghana using the Perceived Resources Questionnaire. The data were entered into the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences and subjected to t-tests, one and two-way independent analyses of variances and direct logical regressions. RESULTS While the students were slightly positive about the availability of resources, there were differences between them in terms of disability type, gender and grade. CONCLUSION We discuss the need for policymakers to engage other stakeholders to expedite the supply of resources to regular schools to support inclusive practices.Implications for rehabilitationThe importance of resources to facilitating inclusive practices cannot be overemphasised.The perspectives of students with disabilities about availability of resources in schools is unreported.Students with sensory disabilities were slightly positive about availability of resources in regular schools.There were differences between students with sensory disabilities who participated in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Israel Fianyi
- School of ICT, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia
| | - Patricia Laryea
- Faculty of Education, University of Education Winneba, Kumasi, Ghana
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Opoku MP, Cuskelly M, Pedersen SJ, Rayner CS. Attitudes and self-efficacy as significant predictors of intention of secondary school teachers towards the implementation of inclusive education in Ghana. Eur J Psychol Educ 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10212-020-00490-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Opoku MP, Nketsia W, Banye MA, Mprah WK, Dogbe JA, Badu E. Caregiving experiences and expectations of parents with in-school children with intellectual disability in Ghana. Res Dev Disabil 2020; 96:103524. [PMID: 31739195 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2019.103524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The literature suggests that there are challenges faced by parents of children with intellectual disabilities (ID), which have resulted in calls for support services to be made available to parents and their children with ID. Although regular schools in Ghana are unable to admit students with ID, it is believed that special schools have the necessary facilities to support parents and their children with ID. However, little has been documented on the experiences and expectations of parents whose children with ID are enrolled in a special school. METHOD In this qualitative study, one-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with purposively recruited parents (n = 20) from the second most populous city in Ghana to explore their caregiving experiences and expectations regarding the education of their school-going children with ID. RESULTS Although the parents acknowledged that access to education has some benefits, such as the protection of their children with ID from negative societal attitudes and a reduction of their caregiving burden, they had low expectations for their children's education. Furthermore, the parents encountered considerable challenges in catering for their children with ID, such as financial problems and limited access to caregiving skills. CONCLUSION There is a need to intensify efforts at public education in relation to disability acceptance as well as to develop formidable social support systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Williams Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Kingwood, Australia
| | - Mabel A Banye
- Department of Community Health, Centre for Disability Rehabilitation Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Wisdom K Mprah
- Department of Community Health, Centre for Disability Rehabilitation Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joslin A Dogbe
- Department of Community Health, Centre for Disability Rehabilitation Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Eric Badu
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
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Osam JA, Opoku MP, Dogbe JA, Nketsia W, Hammond C. The use of assistive technologies among children with disabilities: the perception of parents of children with disabilities in Ghana. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2019; 16:301-308. [PMID: 31603354 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2019.1673836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Assistive technologies (ATs) are fundamental to the successful educational and societal inclusion of all children with disabilities. In particular, the use of ATs has been found to increase levels of independence in daily living and promote greater access to learning opportunities for children with disabilities. However, the knowledge base and baseline information on the use of ATs is limited in developing countries such as Ghana. In this study, we sought to explore the experiences of parents regarding the use of ATs by their children with disabilities in Ghana. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used a survey questionnaire consisting of both open- and closed-ended questions to explore the perspectives of parents with children with disabilities (n = 35) who were attending the rehabilitation unit of a referral hospital. RESULTS Although participants acknowledged the benefits of ATs for the development and participation of their children in society, they noted barriers to the usage of ATs by their children. Among several barriers, parents mentioned that they lacked funds to purchase assistive devices. Some parents also mentioned the high cost of ATs and rehabilitation services. CONCLUSION The need for government to include rehabilitation services and ATs in the National Health Insurance Scheme to ease the burden on participants and other implications of the findings for policymaking are extensively discussed. Implications for rehabilitationIn an environment where there is negative attitude towards children and parents with disabilities, ATs are expected to encourage the participation and acceptance in society.Although many participants were aware of the benefits of ATs to their children, they reported barriers to usage among their children with disabilities.This study shows that poverty, limited health facilities, unfriendly environment and stigmatisation were barriers encountered by parents.We conclude that the government should expand health and rehabilitation facilities to encourage access and participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Annor Osam
- Department of Community Health, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Joslin Alexei Dogbe
- Department of Community Health, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Charles Hammond
- Department of Community Health, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Amoako S, Opoku MP, Nketsia W, Edusei AK, Afriyie SA, Badu E. Inclusivity in neo-liberal policy environment: preparedness of mass media to support disability awareness campaigns in Ghana. Disabil Rehabil 2019; 42:3015-3023. [PMID: 30907160 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2019.1582718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The mass media have been described as an important institution in educating society about persons with disabilities and in facilitating their acceptance. However, calls to project a positive public image of persons with disabilities and to develop an inclusive society have coincided with the neo-liberal approach to policymaking, whereby government plays a minimised role in the provision of basic services to citizens. Although the extant literature from advanced countries has found stereotypical and disempowering portrayals of persons with disabilities in the mass media, this area remains unresearched in developing countries. The purpose of this study was to explore how the managers of media organisations conceptualise disability, their perception of the role and contribution of the media towards promoting effective public awareness campaigns about persons with disabilities.Methods: This descriptive, qualitative study draws on a purposive sample of 20 participants consisting of general managers, news editors and programme managers from ten media organisations in a region in Ghana. A semi-structured interview guide was developed from the literature, which included tenets of neo-liberalism, to collect the data.Results: The study found that the majority of respondents cited medical model explanations of disability. Also, they were unprepared to prioritise disability issues due to lack of public interest in disability programmes and lack of funds and sponsorship for disability programmes.Conclusion: Governments must offer tax rebates to media organisations to enable them to prioritise disability issues. Other recommendations for developing media interest in disability issues are also discussed.Implications for rehabilitationThis study shows limited understanding of disability among decision-makers or key players in media organisations in Ghana.In an environment of meritocracy, persons with disabilities who struggle to access education in Ghana, may be unable to secure jobs at media organisation.This study shows that media organisations seem unprepared to support or project image of persons with disabilities because such ventures come with no reward.We conclude that if the government is committed towards achieving an inclusive society in Ghana, it could offer tax rebate to media organisations to enable them cover disability programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Amoako
- Department of Community Health, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony Kweku Edusei
- Department of Community Health, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Eric Badu
- School Nursing and Midwifery, University of Newcastle, Sydney, Australia
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Dogbe JA, Kyeremateng JDA, Opoku MP, Nketsia W, Hammond C. 'There is family tension, but they understand…': familial and sibling relationships following the diagnosis of cerebral palsy in children in Ghana. Int J Dev Disabil 2019; 68:35-46. [PMID: 35173962 PMCID: PMC8843311 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2019.1573572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The challenges faced by parents raising children with cerebral palsy (CP) have been well explored in the literature. However, little attention has been paid to the experiences of parents raising children with CP in low-income countries, such as Ghana. OBJECTIVE Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore parents' experiences of raising children with CP, specifically focusing on the relationships between spouses and between children with CP and their typically developing siblings. METHOD Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 40 parents, who were purposively selected from the largest tertiary hospital in Ghana. RESULTS The results revealed that typically developing children accept their siblings with CP as their equals and even take up domestic responsibilities to lessen the burden on their parents. However, the parents reported experiencing marital and extended family conflict, financial burden and negative attitudes from spouses, resulting in family tensions. CONCLUSION The implications of these findings for policy-making have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joslin Alexei Dogbe
- Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Child Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology/Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Kumasi, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joana D. A. Kyeremateng
- Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - William Nketsia
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Charles Hammond
- Department of Child Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology/Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Kumasi, Kumasi, Ghana
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Badu E, Okyere P, Bell D, Gyamfi N, Opoku MP, Agyei-Baffour P, Edusei AK. Reporting in the abstracts presented at the 5th AfriNEAD (African Network for Evidence-to-Action in Disability) Conference in Ghana. Res Integr Peer Rev 2019; 4:1. [PMID: 30680228 PMCID: PMC6335780 DOI: 10.1186/s41073-018-0061-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The abstracts of a conference are important for informing the participants about the results that are communicated. However, there is poor reporting in conference abstracts in disability research. This paper aims to assess the reporting in the abstracts presented at the 5th African Network for Evidence-to-Action in Disability (AfriNEAD) Conference in Ghana. Methods This descriptive study extracted information from the abstracts presented at the 5th AfriNEAD Conference. Three reviewers independently reviewed all the included abstracts using a predefined data extraction form. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the extracted information, using Stata version 15. Results Of the 76 abstracts assessed, 54 met the inclusion criteria, while 22 were excluded. More than half of all the included abstracts (32/54; 59.26%) were studies conducted in Ghana. Some of the included abstracts did not report on the study design (37/54; 68.5%), the type of analysis performed (30/54; 55.56%), the sampling (27/54; 50%), and the sample size (18/54; 33.33%). Almost all the included abstracts did not report the age distribution and the gender of the participants. Conclusion The study findings confirm that there is poor reporting of methods and findings in conference abstracts. Future conference organizers should critically examine abstracts to ensure that these issues are adequately addressed, so that findings are effectively communicated to participants. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s41073-018-0061-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Badu
- 1Department of Health Promotion and Disability Studies, School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Paul Okyere
- 1Department of Health Promotion and Disability Studies, School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Diane Bell
- 2Business Faculty, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Naomi Gyamfi
- 1Department of Health Promotion and Disability Studies, School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | - Anthony Kwaku Edusei
- 1Department of Health Promotion and Disability Studies, School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Torgbenu EL, Ashigbi EYK, Opoku MP, Banini S, Prempeh EBA. Rehabilitation and management outcomes of musculoskeletal injuries in a major referral hospital in Ghana. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2019; 20:40. [PMID: 30678681 PMCID: PMC6346525 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-019-2423-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The devastating impact of musculoskeletal injury (MSI) on human lives, the economy, and health services cannot be overemphasised. This has ignited discussion at international fora, as countries have been exhorted to prioritise management of MSI in order to maintain a healthy society. In the Ghanaian context, the knowledge base management of MSI is very low, which has provided the impetus to explore the management of MSI and the rehabilitation systems at a tertiary hospital in Ghana. Methods The study was a retrospective cross-sectional study, using the consecutive sampling method to recruit patients who were discharged after admission at the accident and emergency unit, as well as patients undergoing orthopaedic review, at the St. Joseph’s Orthopaedic Hospital in Koforidua over a six-month period. Results A total of 269 musculoskeletal injury patients were recruited for the study. Half of the participants (51%) had had surgery in addition to pain medication. The overall mean recovery days were 26.81 ± 33.94 days, and the average disability days spent in the hospital were estimated at 16.54 ± 27.97 days. Individuals reported financial constraints as a major challenge to their full participation in rehabilitation. Conclusion The findings of this study have implications for policymaking in Ghana. Particularly, the need to improve health facilities to enable MSI patients to seek treatment is highlighted. Also, the need to train health professionals who will be able to administer appropriate medication for MSI patients is discussed extensively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Lawer Torgbenu
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Ho, Ghana.
| | - Evans Yayra Kwaku Ashigbi
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | | | - Sandra Banini
- Department of Physiotherapy, Volta Regional Hospital, Ho, Ghana
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Senayah EA, Mprah WK, Opoku MP, Edusei AK, Torgbenu EL. The accessibility of health services to young deaf adolescents in Ghana. Int J Health Plann Manage 2018; 34:e634-e645. [PMID: 30311956 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.2679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Quality health care is a fundamental human right, which is enshrined in several international and domestic legislative instruments. In the Ghanaian context, there are reports that adults with disabilities encounter barriers in their attempts to access health care. However, scholarly attention is yet to explore the perspectives of young people and adolescents with disabilities. Therefore, this quantitative study was conducted from the perspective of critical disability studies, where young deaf adolescents (YDAs) were regarded as right bearers, and where they shared their perspectives on health accessibility decisions, barriers, and needs. Sixty-seven participants, made up of 44 male and 23 female students, took part in this quantitative study. Although many YDAs who took part in this study indicated that it was not difficult to access health facilities, they claim to have encountered communication barriers. Sign language interpreters in health facilities and introduction of sign language courses in health training institutions to improve communication between health professionals and deaf patients have been suggested as ways of addressing the barriers faced by YDAs in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebenezer Alfa Senayah
- Centre for Disability Rehabilitation Studies, Department of Community Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Wisdom Kwadwo Mprah
- Centre for Disability Rehabilitation Studies, Department of Community Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Anthony Kweku Edusei
- Centre for Disability Rehabilitation Studies, Department of Community Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Eric Lawer Torgbenu
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
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Torgbenu EL, Nakua EK, Kyei H, Badu E, Opoku MP. Causes, trends and severity of musculoskeletal injuries in Ghana. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2017; 18:349. [PMID: 28800763 PMCID: PMC5553586 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-017-1709-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Musculoskeletal [MSK] injuries are common causes of long-term pain and physical disability which affect many people worldwide. The economic and social impacts on the individual, society and national health systems are enormous making a matter of public health concern. Therefore, this study examined the causes and extent of MSK injuries in a referral hospital in Ghana. Methods A prospective study design with consecutive sampling method was used to recruit patients admitted at Trauma Unit as well as those receiving orthopaedic reviews at St. Joseph’s Orthopaedic Hospital over a ten-month period. A structured questionnaire, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) were used to collect data which were analysed descriptively using SPSS version 20. Results A total of 269 MSK injury patients were identified - of these, 137 (50.9%) males with an average age of 38 years (SD = 19.88). Nearly half (49.1%) of the injuries sustained were fractures, and common causes were vehicular crash 113 (42.0%) and fall 68 (25.3%). Body parts affected most were the knee (19.62) and the mean levels of pain for all injuries were 6.04 ± 2.44 and 3.25 (±1.50) respectively. Conclusion Ghana needs a healthy population to steer its development trajectory. Policy makers in Ghana should pay attention to both preventive as well as management of MSK injuries, or else, most of the country’s working class could live with lasting effects of injuries which may have significant impacts on the economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Lawer Torgbenu
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel K Nakua
- Department of Community Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, School of Medical Sciences, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Henry Kyei
- Department of Physiotherapy, Kibi Government Hospital, Kibi, Ghana
| | - Eric Badu
- Department of Community Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, School of Medical Sciences, Kumasi, Ghana
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Opoku MP, Mprah WK, Mckenzie J, Sakah BN, Badu E. Lives of persons with disabilities in Cameroon after CRPD: voices of persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality in Cameroon. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1515/ijdhd-2016-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction:
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) has been touted as a major breakthrough towards achieving equal rights for persons with disabilities. The promulgation of the convention provided clear guidelines for signatory countries to revise their legislation as well as to formulate policies that will take into consideration the needs of persons with disabilities. As Cameroon is a signatory to the convention, it is expected that disability-friendly policies have been implemented to enhance the living conditions of persons with disabilities. This study examined, from the perspectives of participants, the life experiences of persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality 7 years after Cameroon signed the CRPD.
Methods:
The study adopted a qualitative method, involving focus-group discussions with 36 participants from three disability groups: hearing impaired, visually impaired, and physically impaired.
Findings:
The study found that persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality faced many challenges in their daily endeavors. These challenges are a result of a lack of inclusive policies, leading to their exclusion from social and economic activities such as education, employment, and healthcare.
Conclusion:
Although the study is limited in scope, the findings suggest that persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality were yet to benefit from the CRPD. It is, therefore, suggested that the government of Cameroon should formulate inclusive policies to address the numerous challenges facing persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality.
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