Date of Award
Spring 5-13-2022
Document Type
Dissertation (799 registration)
Degree Name
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
Boyd Bradbury
Keywords
adapted physical education, preservice physical educators, attitudes toward teaching individuals with disabilities, disabilities, inclusion, Unified PE
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explain the effects a practicum had on the attitudes and perceived self-efficacy of preservice physical educators toward teaching students with disabilities in an inclusive learning environment. Existing literature established most physical educators receive one semester-long course in adapted physical education (APE), which often leads to feelings of unpreparedness and negative attitudes toward teaching students with disabilities in the general physical education (GenPE) classroom. The present study utilized a mixed-methods approach to combine quantitative data results from the Physical Educators Attitudes toward Teaching Individuals with Disabilities (PEATID-III) survey (Rizzo, 1993) and qualitative data findings (i.e., reflective journals, summary of experience reports, semi-structured focus group interview) to determine what factors influenced the preservice physical educators (n = 9) change in attitudes and development of self-efficacy during the practicum. The results from this study determined relationship building through 1) connection, 2) valued experience, 3) leading by example, and 4) developing soft skills as a practical approach to changing attitudes toward teaching students with disabilities. Additionally, this study revealed competency and confidence can be developed through knowledge and hands-on experience using 1) course content and 2) modeled pedagogy as valuable tools to build self-efficacy toward inclusion. Finally, this study demonstrated the significance of advocacy as a step toward the future development of positive attitudes and self-efficacy in the APE profession through 1) promoting APE and 2) life-long learning.
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Megan E., "The Effectiveness of Practicums on Preservice Physical Educators’ Attitudes and Self-Efficacy Toward Teaching Individuals with Disabilities." (2022). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 700.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/700
Included in
Disability and Equity in Education Commons, Health and Physical Education Commons, Special Education and Teaching Commons