Developing an Augmented Reality Animation Prototype for Teaching Hijaiyah Letters for Deaf Children: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

Teaching Hijaiyah letters to deaf children presents unique challenges due to limited access to specialised educators and appropriate instructional tools. This study explores the development of a prototype teaching aid that integrates Augmented Reality (AR) and animation to support Islamic education among hearing-impaired children in Malaysia. Every deaf individual must acquire sign language proficiency in order to effectively interact with other deaf individuals. Introducing individuals, particularly children, to sign language and Hijaiyah letters at an early age is crucial. This knowledge is essential for every Muslim individual to acquire before they can read the Al-Quran. Introducing Hijaiyah letters through sign language at an early age may support comprehension among deaf children, who often face difficulties in conventional classroom setting. The research employed a qualitative and quantitative approach, involving semi-structured interviews with two experts in Islamic education and special needs, as well as questionnaire completed by 30 teachers experienced in teaching sign language. Findings indicate that the visual and interactive elements of AR and animation have strong potential to enhance engagement and comprehension among deaf learners. Respondents expressed positive feedback toward the design, particularly in terms of colour schemes, character style and the sing-along concept adapted for children with hearing aids. However, the study acknowledges limitations in sample size, the absence of classroom-based testing and a lack of alignment with formal instructional design models. This study contributes to inclusive education discourse by offering design insight for culturally and linguistically appropriate teaching aids. While the project is at a prototype stage, it lays the groundwork for further development and evaluation of an AR-integrated Islamic learning tool for deaf children in formal and informal educational settings.