"My Eyes Have Nothing to Do With How My Legs Move": Individuals With Visual Impairments' Experiences With Learning to Run.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the reflections of adults with visual impairments about learning to run during K-12 physical education. An interpretative phenomenological analysis research approach was used, and eight adults (age 22-35years) with visual impairments served as participants. Primary data sources were semistructured, audiotaped telephone interviews and reflective interview notes. Based on a thematic data analysis process, two themes were developed: (a)"I wouldn't expect anything better from you": running instruction in physical education and (b)"You look like the guy in the crosswalk signal": making up for the shortcomings of physical education. The narratives portraying these themes highlight the lack of instruction that took place in physical education, and the fact that no running instruction occurred at all. These findings indicate that professionals working with individuals with visual impairments should use instructional strategies that will allow for maximum access to learning fundamental movement skills such as running.