Methods by which preservice physical education teachers use selected behaviors to promote handicapped student physical performance in planned skill activities are explored. The basic assumption investigated is that teacher behaviors when working with any child in physical education will have basic similarities. Discussion focuses on processes used…

The purpose of this 1988 follow-up study was to augment findings previously obtained in a comprehensive needs assessment regarding appropriate physical education programming for mainstreamed students. The current educational needs of elementary and secondary public school teachers were determined. Information was sought on teachers' experience,…

Results of comprehensive needs assessments conducted in 1980 and 1988 were compared relative to appropriate physical education for handicapped students as mandated by PL 94-142. A direct, self-report methodology was used covering various dimensions of teacher needs. Although there was a significant improvement of the teachers who had served on a…

To comply with the Education for the Handicapped Act, comprehensive needs assessments were conducted in Ohio relative to appropriate physical education programming in the least restrictive environment. Results from an assessment in an urban school district confirmed the belief that physical education teachers did not possess needed competencies…

A study was conducted to determine the educational needs of elementary and secondary school physical education teachers in Ohio in mainstreaming handicapped children in their classes. A validated questionnaire was sent to teachers in 35 school districts, and 241 teachers responded. The survey sought information on the experiences of teachers with…

Physical education for special populations is a full-fledged sociological and educational movement. Issues concerning adapted physical education teachers involve improving the services of responsible educators, possible futures for adapted physical education,, and the true situation of physical education for the handicapped today. Issues which…

Physical education (including special/adapted) is currently at a crossroads in its professional life. Analysis reveals that physical education professionals have failed to develop a grass-roots constituency which acts as an advocate when physical education's existence in the public schools is in jeopardy. One method which might circumvent this…