Trainees’ Perception and Engagement with Graphic Organizers and the Influence on Outcomes of Trainees with Diverse Learning Needs

Education is a fundamental right for all children, including those with diverse learning needs, and plays a critical role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The integration of Information and Communication Technology in education has brought particular benefits to learners with diverse needs, including visual presentations, self-paced learning, engaging graphics, and greater autonomy in the learning process. Despite these advancements, there is limited research on the development of inclusive Graphic Organizers ensuring that all learners feel supported and valued. This study aimed to address this gap by examining trainees’ perception and engagement with Graphic Organizers and its influence on learning outcomes of learners with diverse needs. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach within an experimental research design. The target population comprised 52 participants: the Centre Manager, seven instructors, and 44 trainees with diverse learning needs, all selected purposively from the Kenyatta Industrial Vocational Rehabilitation Centre in Nairobi County. A census approach was used, with all 44 trainees participating in the study. These trainees were evenly divided into two groups: 22 in the experimental group and 22 in the control group. The experimental group received instruction using Advance Organizer treatments over a two-week period, while the control group received conventional instruction from their regular instructor during the same timeframe. After the instructional period, a post-test was administered to both groups to assess learning outcomes. Additionally, structured questionnaires were distributed to the trainees with clear guidance on how to complete them. A key informant interview was also conducted with the Centre Manager to gather in-depth qualitative insights. The findings indicate that Graphic Organizers significantly motivate trainees to study more. Additionally, the study revealed a notable improvement in trainees’ performance scores after the integration of Graphic Organizers into their learning activities. Based on the findings, the study recommends that institutions should integrate Graphic Organizers into the instructional design for learners with diverse learning needs, given their proven ability to improve motivation, engagement, and performance. Additionally, learner-centered strategies should be promoted, where trainees actively use GOs to brainstorm, categorize, and synthesize information during lessons.