Directors’ Views on Adapted Physical Education and Sports Practices in Special Education and Rehabilitation Centers

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the current situation regarding physical education and sports practices for special needs students in special education and rehabilitation centers and to analyze the views of the directors of these institutions in detail. Method: The case study design used for qualitative research was employed. The research was conducted in nine institutions operating in the Izmit district of Kocaeli province, Turkey, via selection through easily accessible case sampling. The directors of the institutions were interviewed individually following semi-structured interview forms. The data obtained were analyzed using the content analysis method. Findings: In line with the opinions expressed by the participants, four main themes and ten sub-themes emerged. The main themes identified were the shadow of the Ministry of National Education, educator characteristics, guidance toward physical education and sports, and integrity of development. Discussion: Although there are no official guidelines for physical education and sports, services and guidance pertaining to physical education and sports exist thanks to the sensitivity and efforts of the institutions. The participating directors revealed the desire to add a module in physical education and sports to the regulations, and they are committed to fulfilling the relevant requirements. For the directors of the institutions, who undertake their efforts in the shadow of the regulations and are aware of the benefits that sports practices will provide to children with special needs, using their initiative and whatever financial and moral means are at their disposal are viewed as necessary steps to be taken in the name of education. Within this context, physical education and sports teachers and recreation leader should also be included and employed as personnel in such institutions, a condition that should be considered mandatory in the Special Education Institutions Regulation of the Ministry of National Education.