Challenges in Practicing Inclusive Physical Education: The Case of Ghana National College of Cape Coast

Abstract

Every child has the right to education. This right gives them the opportunity to engage in any form of learning irrespective of social status, physical appearance and any other condition or disability. Yet, students with special needs are marginalized or excluded from physical education lessons. The intent of this study was to find out challenges some public school physical education teachers face in involving students with special needs in their classrooms. In this case study, 12 participants were interviewed and observed. Findings showed that special need students are excluded from physical education lessons. Special need students felt it was not safe to use the same equipment in physical education practical lessons with colleagues without disabilities. Physical education teachers stated that the lack of professional knowledge in their academic preparation has made it difficult to fully involve special need students in their practical lessons. In addition, funds to purchase special equipment for special need students are a major challenge. These coupled with large class size and unsafe school environment threatens the progress of inclusive physical education.