Teaching Disabled Children in Physical Education: (Dis)connections between Research and Practice

Research plays a crucial role in pedagogical practices when teaching children and young people with disabilities in physical education classes. It helps practitioners develop effective strategies and interventions that meet the unique needs of these students. The research-base of pedagogical practices advocated by academics and utilized by practitioners is discussed, highlighting the practices that are supported by evidence and effective in promoting student learning and participation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 102 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The significance of research in pedagogical practices when teaching children and young people with disabilities in physical education classes cannot be overstated. Research provides valuable insights into effective teaching strategies, accommodations, and interventions that can enhance the learning experiences and academic outcomes of these students.

In this essay, we will delve into the research-base of pedagogical practices that are advocated by academics and utilised by practitioners when teaching children and young people with six specific disabilities. We will examine the evidence-based principles and strategies that underpin these practices and discuss their potential impact on the educational outcomes of students with disabilities.

One of the key areas of research in pedagogical practices for children and young people with disabilities is the use of assistive technology. Assistive technology is designed to help individuals with disabilities access and participate in educational activities and can include devices such as speech-to-text software, text-to-speech software, and braille displays. Research has shown that the use of assistive technology can improve the reading and writing skills of students with visual impairments, as well as their ability to participate in classroom activities and communicate with their peers.

Another important area of research is the use of inclusive teaching practices. Inclusive teaching practices involve creating a learning environment that is accessible and supportive to all students, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. This includes providing accommodations such as modified equipment, individualized instruction, and support services to students who need them. Research has shown that inclusive teaching practices can improve the social and emotional development of students with disabilities, as well as their academic outcomes.

In addition to assistive technology and inclusive teaching practices, research has also focused on the use of behavior management strategies and sensory integration techniques. Behavior management strategies are designed to address challenging behaviors that may interfere with a student's ability to learn and participate in classroom activities. Sensory integration techniques are designed to address sensory needs that may affect a student's ability to focus, attend, and interact with their environment.

Research has shown that the use of behavior management strategies and sensory integration techniques can improve the behavior and academic outcomes of students with disabilities. For example, research has shown that the use of visual schedules and social stories can help students with autism manage their behavior and communicate with their peers. Similarly, research has shown that sensory integration activities such as deep pressure massage and sensory swings can help students with sensory processing disorders improve their attention and concentration.

However, it is important to note that not all research findings are consistent. Some studies may suggest that certain pedagogical practices are more effective than others, while others may not find any significant differences between different practices. It is important for practitioners to be aware of the research-base and to use evidence-based practices that are supported by research.

In conclusion, research plays a critical role in pedagogical practices when teaching children and young people with disabilities in physical education classes. By examining the research-base of pedagogical practices, practitioners can gain valuable insights into effective teaching strategies, accommodations, and interventions that can enhance the learning experiences and academic outcomes of these students. It is important for practitioners to be aware of the research-base and to use evidence-based practices that are supported by research.

Weight: 234g
Dimension: 145 x 223 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032008943