General Physical Education Teachers' Perceptions of Adapted Physical Education Consultation

Abstract

ABSTRACT GENERAL PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS' PERCEPTIONS OF ADAPTED PHYSICAL EDUCATION CONSULTATION by © Marcia J. Pope 2009 Master of Arts in Kinesiology California State University, Chico Summer 2009 This phenomenological study examined general physical education teachers’ perceptions of consultation for the successful inclusion of children with disabilities. Participants included 10 general physical education teachers from Northern California with varying years of teaching experience. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews on their experiences of consultation with an adapted physical education specialist. Thematic analysis revealed five main themes: teacher relationships during consultation; perceptions of the individualized education plan process; supports provided through consultation by the adapted physical education specialists and accountability for the consultation. Results from this sample of general physical education teachers indicated a desire for a collaborative consultation model; more background information on the included student; and documented information and x instructional strategies from the consultant. Implications for future practice of adapted physical education consultation are suggested.