Collaborative Preparation of Special Educators and Adapted Physical Educators

Abstract

Adapted physical education (APE) is an important, but often overlooked, component of a well-rounded education experience and provides a variety of benefits for student's health, well-being, and educational achievement. Interdisciplinary teacher preparation in special education (SPED) and APE can facilitate collaborative learning and prepare preservice educators to implement high-quality holistic education and participate in multidisciplinary teams. The objective of this chapter is to provide an overview of the importance of APE within educational programming and outline strategies for interdisciplinary education. These strategies include interdisciplinary instructional and community programing and implantation of action research. Providing opportunities to engage in purposeful multidisciplinary groups in teacher preparation programs prepares students to effectively step into their future roles as educators.