Developing and Implementing a Physical Education Program That Improves the Physical Education Service to Students with Disabilities at an Elementary School through Inclusion.

Overview & Synopsis

This report describes a practicum designed to improve physical education services for six elementary students (ages 5-9) with disabilities. The project used several strategies to improve physical education services, including: (1) inclusion of the children with disabilities in regular physical education classes; (2) inservice training for the physical education staff in adaptive physical education and inclusion techniques; (3) prior assessment of students with disabilities to give the staff guidance in designing appropriate physical education for them; and (4) an appropriate physical education curriculum that allowed for modifications and adaptations. Results of the project indicate the students with disabilities were able to achieve 14 of 18 physical education goals. There also proved to be other benefits for the students. Inclusion offered the students with disabilities an opportunity to interact socially with students without disabilities and provided a stimulating atmosphere in which to develop their physical skill levels. The students without disabilities gained a better understanding of their peers with disabilities and learned to appreciate individual differences. Appendices contain survey forms and a motor skills test. (Contains 39 references.) (CR)