Adapted Physical Activity (APA)

Now that we have an understanding of the neurological and physiological aspects of PE, it is time to look at Adapted Physical Activity. Roxeanne showed us an excellent powerpoint explaining the history and definition of APA. APA science is defined as

"reserach, theory and practice directed toward persons of all ages and underserverd by the general sport sciences, disadvantatged in resources or lacking power to access equal physicl opporutnities and right."

"APA services and supports are porivded in all kinds of settings. Thus, research, theory and practice relate to the needs and rights in inclusive as well as separate APA programs." (Sherrill & Hutzler, 2008)

I enjoyed learning about the movement of APA from a Facility-based paridign to an Empowerment and Self-determination Paridigm. In the Facilities-based paridigm, a medical model approach was taken which viewed the person as a patient needing to be cured. This is very similar to the medical model of disability we have been studying in my course "Introduction to Disabillity Studies." The Enpowerment and Self-determination paridigm is the one we should be using in all education for disabled individuals which focuses on choice and self-awareness but I believe that we are still following a service-based paridigm for education. Learning about these models has been a true "Aha" moment for me and I will apply my understanding in teaching all my students regardless of the curriculum.