Physical Education and Special Education—Likely Partners?

Abstract

Physical education continues to be the only curricular area included as a defined part of special education. Although this merger has remained viable for over 26 years, physical education and special education have not always been compatible partners. These relationships are discussed from historical perspectives. Other areas explored include physical education defined; LRE examples of early activities to prepare students for the real world; physical education IEPs; physical education at each school level, elementary through senior high school; inclusion, what it is and what it is not; effects of class size, teacher attitudes, and infusion in professional preparation programs; sport opportunities; implications and applications of deliberations and recommendations from the 1996 3rd Paralympic Congress; and the 4-As for quality programs—accessibility, accommodations, advocacy, and attitude.