Accessibility of Sign Language Services to the Hearing Impaired Community in Television : The Case of Independent Television (ITV) and Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC 1)Accessibility of Sign Language Services to the Hearing Impaired Community: The case of Independent Television (ITV) and Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC 1).

Phillip, Janet (2025) Accessibility of Sign Language Services to the Hearing Impaired Community in Television : The Case of Independent Television (ITV) and Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC 1)Accessibility of Sign Language Services to the Hearing Impaired Community: The case of Independent Television (ITV) and Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC 1). Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study assessed accessibility of sign language services to the hearing impaired community in television media in Tanzania with reference to Independent Television (ITV) and Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC1). The study was guided by general objective and specific objectives used a case study research design with application of both qualitative and quantitative methods. Stratified and purposive sampling techniques were employed to 101 hearing impaired respondents and the method used to collect data was questionnaire. In- depth interviews was another collection method used to collect data to 4 sign language interpreters’ respondents and 3 respondents from the management crew. The findings revealed that, the concentration of sign language services in one program at 62(61.38%) compared to the next highest at 9(8.9%) which highlighted a lack of variety in accessible programming. About coverage of essential information, the majority 46(45.54%) respondents felt that sign language services rarely covered all essential information in programs, with 18(17.82%) indicating coverage was adequate only sometimes. Only 16% felt information was always adequately covered suggesting substantial gaps in providing full accessibility. The findings showed that satisfaction levels of the interpretation service varied, with 7.92% reporting they were very satisfied, 28.71%satisfied, and 16.83% feeling neutral. However, dissatisfaction was notable, with 25.74% dissatisfied and 9.98%very dissatisfied. The study revealed that, with 72(71.29%) of respondents reporting technological challenges, while 12(13.86%) did not experience such challenges which indicates that when the technology is functional and appropriately utilized, it is possible to deliver satisfactory services. The study recommended that, there is a need for a more widespread implementation of sign language services across all channels and programs to increase accessibility. Also focus should be on enhancing the quality and comprehensiveness of the information provided through sign language to better meet the needs of the hearing impaired community. Keywords: Sign Language, sign language services, hearing impairment, Sign Language Interpretation, Deaf, Hearing Impaired, Television, Media.

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