Assessing parents’ capability of using Filipino Sign Language to communicate with hearing-impaired children: Basis for developing assistive videos for parents

Abstract

Effective communication between parents and children who are hearing impaired remains a critical concern, as many parents lack the skills to support daily home and school interactions. This study developed Filipino Sign Language (FSL) Basic Survival instructional videos to enhance parents’ communication with their children. Using a Research and Development (R&D) design, 20 parents of children enrolled in SPED programs in Ilocos Norte participated. Data were collected via a needs assessment survey and a validation rating scale, and analyzed using mean scores with qualitative descriptions. Findings revealed limited proficiency in routine household and academic vocabulary but functional competence in caregiving, safety, hygiene, and emergency-related signs. Guided by these results, context-based FSL videos were developed to support daily interactions. Expert validation rated the materials as Very Highly Valid, confirming pedagogical soundness, technical quality, and accessibility. The study highlights the effectiveness of multimedia instructional tools in bridging parental FSL skill gaps, strengthening parent–child communication, promoting inclusive home and school environments, and recommends structured, ongoing FSL training for parents.