A qualitative inquiry on realities and support needs regarding use of simplified manual sign for communication of students with visual impairments and multiple disabilities based on experiences and perceptions of parents and teachers

Purpose: The objective of this study was to explore the experiences and needs for the use of simplified manual sign for communication of students with Visual Impairments and Multiple Disabilities. Method: Focus group interviews were conducted with 6 special teachers and 7 parents of students with disabilities. Results: The results of this research were summarized into 3 main themes and 12 sub-themes as follows; (1) Communication reality with students with visual impairments and multiple disabilities-communication difficulties with limited expression, one's own efforts to communicate, (2) Awareness and attitude toward simplified manual sign as a means of communication-positive recognition, negative perception, (3) Need for support to develop simplified manual sign-consideration for development area and contents, consideration for simplified manual sign, need for support to use simplified manual sign-efforts to expand utilization, policy and institutional support needs. Conclusion: Participants experienced difficulties in communicating with students with visual impairments and multiple disabilities due to limited expression. As a result, they showed various demands and high expectations for the use of simplified manual sign.