Exploring Ableism in Kinesiology Curriculum through Kinesiology Students’ Experience: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Ableism is an inconspicuous phenomenon within the allied health field which may play a role in the lack of quality care often observed for people with disabilities (PWD). Since individuals’ general perceptions and attitudes toward people with disabilities develop in the early stages of their academic life, it is critical to examine the education of prospective allied healthcare practitioners, such as Kinesiology (KIN) students, to identify the roots of ableist ideas in an education system. The purpose of this study was to explore KIN students’ experiences within their respective curriculum in relation to the topics of PWD and ableism. We employed a phenomenological qualitative design using semi-structured interviews based on Critical Disability Theory. Twenty KIN students were interviewed about their experiences regarding PWD and KIN education. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data. The results revealed ableism within the KIN curriculum due to insufficient information and exposure to PWD. Our findings provide a significant contribution to academia by highlighting how an able-bodied curriculum can perpetuate ableist attitudes among KIN students. Subsequently, this study signifies the need to develop disability awareness in KIN education.