The Nature of Physical Activity Programming in Irish Primary Schools for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Authors

  • Marie Carey
  • Sharon Kinsella
  • Sean Healy
  • Fiona Knott
  • Damien Sheehan
  • Niall O’Malley

Keywords:

Autism spectrum disorder, ASD, physical activity programming, physical education, school

Abstract

Research on physical activity programming for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is scant. The aim of this study was to assess the nature of physical activity programming conducted in ASD units in Irish primary schools, in addition to assessing the perceived benefits and challenges among teachers. An online questionnaire was sent to every primary school with an ASD unit in Ireland (n = 380). Questions pertained to the amount and type of physical activity being conducted, in addition to questions on physical activity facilities, training, and the teachers’ perceived challenges and benefits. Data were gathered on 69 ASD units. In the majority of units (74.24%), physical education classes were held daily, with the most frequent duration (45.45%) being 10-20 minutes. The most common types of activities performed included walking (92.42%), running (81.82%), and jogging (60.61%). This study gives an insight into the nature of physical activity for children in ASD units in Irish primary schools. 

Author Biographies

Marie Carey

Marie Carey is with the Department of Science and Health, Institute of Technology Carlow, Ireland.

Sharon Kinsella

Sharon Kinsella is with the Department of Science and Health, Institute of Technology Carlow, Ireland.

Sean Healy

Sean Healy is with the Department of Behavioral Health and Nutrition, University of Delaware, Neward, Delaware, USA, DE 

Fiona Knott

Fiona Knott is with the Department of Psychology, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom.

Damien Sheehan

Damien Sheehan is with the Department of Science and Health, Institute of Technology Carlow, Ireland.

Niall O’Malley

Niall O’Malley is with the Department of Science and Health, Institute of Technology Carlow, Ireland.

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Published

2022-03-07

Issue

Vol. 36 No. 1 (2022)

Section

Feature Articles

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