Examining physical education experiences at integrated and residential schools for students with visual impairments

Abstract

This study examined how individuals who experienced physical education in both integrated and residential school settings viewed their physical education experiences. A retrospective interpretative phenomenological approach (IPA) was used, and five adults with visual impairments (aged 20–35 years; three males, two females) were enrolled in this study. Data collection included semi-structured telephone interviews and reflective interview notes, which were analyzed thematically using a three-step process. Two interrelated themes emerged from the data. In the first theme – feelings about being included and excluded – participants described that across school settings, inclusivity and exclusivity were central to how they understood their physical education experiences. The second theme – support needs met at residential schools – described how perceived teacher support and feelings of relatedness with peers were identified as important factors related to their willingness to explore the environment and engage in physical education curricula.