What's New in Adapted Physical Education

This episode featured a discussion between three emeritus professors in the APE space on the past, present, and future of APE. Dr. Garth Tymeson worked as a professor of APE at the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse. Dr. Dale Ulrich is a retired professor from the University of Michigan that created the Test of Gross Motor Development (TGMD) that evaluates the gross motor function of children. Finally, Dr. Barry Lavay is a leader in the APE space and worked as a professor at California State University Long Beach. They began by discussing laws and regulations that shaped the field into what it is today, such as creating a separate certification for APE teachers. Others highlighted that often it was debated whether children with disabilities should participate in physical activity, let alone receiving a APE curriculum. At that time, there was no available literature, no assessment or curriculum materials, and very little equipment, which posed both unique challenges and opportunities to adapt and be creative. The three guests also described the challenges and opportunities after becoming faculty members at various university’s APE programs, such as modifying graduate program curriculum, establishing clinical experiences for students, and teaching themselves how to do research at a time when collaboration was not as encouraged as it is now. Valuable skills that these professors built during their first years as faculty included grant and scholarship writing, at which point the professors transitioned into discussing the sometimes-controversial topic of seeking federal and private foundation grants. One point that was highlighted during that conversation was that usually, those deciding on federal funding like to see collaboration across multiple sites. When discussing the biggest changes in APE over the last 30 years, the consensus was there has been an increase in the integration of students with disabilities in the general PE classroom. Appropriate integration has been aided by adding specialized personnel and continued updates and improvements made to rules and regulations. Specific concerns for the field to hopefully be addressed in the next 10 years include the percentage of general PE teachers who do not have the expertise or knowledge on how to accommodate students with disabilities in their classroom. Additionally, they would like to see an increase in visibility and understanding of APE.

This podcast episode featured two APE professionals interviewing Dr. French, who has been a professor in APE for many years. Dr. French credits the beginning of his journey with APE to his parent’s philosophy on diversity and inclusion, which led him to UCLA where he studied what is now called adapted physical education. Dr. French has co-authored many textbooks used in the APE space on subjects like behavior management and physical education. Some of his mentors included his wife, Dr. Lisa Silliman-French, and his fifth grade teacher who ran a local YMCA club that included him as part of the team. After discussing working in research during his time at UCLA with professors who focused on motor development and APE, Dr. French reflected on how the APENS exam most strongly impacted his adapted PE career as it developed a standard in the APE field. When reviewing how he became interested in behavior management, Dr. French stated that it came from a place of survival, of dealing with students in a PE classroom setting and trying to control the classroom. His advice to young professionals was to go beyond professional collaboration and make positive connections with other professionals in the field. Strengths of APE professionals that were listed include specialization in more in depth physical education information, excellent communication skills, and the ability for collaboration between professionals. Challenges for the profession according to Dr. French include a lack of time spent with family and the need for a good statistician to help with professional research. Upon reflecting on his career, Dr. French expressed that he should have collaborated more with his chair, and dived deeper into different types of inclusion research.

This podcast featured an interview lead by Dr. Amanda Young and her Master students from California State University, Long Beach, where they interview educators in the APE field about working with students with behavioral issues. Specifically, one guest works as an APE specialist for charter schools in California, and the one teaches PE at an alternative school for special education in Vermont. The group goes into common definitions and misconceptions in the APE community, such as the population of students that these educators serve. After outlining the different types of support in place at the alternative school in Vermont, such as different types of classroom clinicians working with the teachers, the guests then reflect on the transition process from public school into these more specialized types of programs that collaborate as a close knit community. At this program, the end goal is to get the students able to return to their public school with a behavior plan that allows for independence as well as inclusion. Strategies that these schools use are proactive behavior management, strong communication between teachers, and creating a safe space for students to have what they need. The ability to implement this comes from the ability to be vulnerable and not being afraid to embarrass yourself as a teacher. While these programs might be unique in what they can offer to students, things like the language used to teach students self advocacy can be applied in many settings to help children understand their emotions better. A piece of advice that was given from the teacher’s perspective was to get to know the student, to try and truly understand them as a person. When a student feels like a teacher cares, everyone benefits. This can be found in the community based programs at the Vermont based school, such as basketball, soccer, and gymnastics camp. At the end of the day, flexibility, connection, communication are key to the success of APE programs.

The podcast episode featuring professors from various universities discussing PhD programs in Adapted Physical Education (APE). Dr. Andrew Pitchford from Oregon State University started by highlighting the importance of their interdisciplinary connections between the adapted physical activity program and other departments, such as the Psychological Science Program and the global health department. Oregon State’s program has five faculty members that can use their unique backgrounds to advise their graduate students. Other things that Oregon State has to offer students is their adaptive exercise clinic, community outreach, and fellowship opportunities through the federal government. Next, members of the University of South Carolina spoke about their program, mentioning that a strength of their program is their core group of faculty with specific interests in adapted physical education and activity. The program is organized into four types of experiences: knowledge, teaching, scholarship and service. Students have the opportunity to teach courses independently, successfully complete their dissertation, and co-author research manuscripts among other things. Then, Nicole Kirk from the University of Georgia spoke on their PhD program that features a focus in adapted physical education. The program also houses a sport instruction research lab that works on lifespan physical activity among other topics. Another important aspect of their work is community outreach, which is accomplished by hosting events such as field days with kids from all over the state of Georgia. Coursework is offered in the areas of APA, PE, and parasport training. Finally, a representative of the University of Illinois spoke on their PhD program for Adapted Physical Activity. They are featured within the pedagogy and physical activity program, with a focus in pedagogical kinesiology. The Kinesiology Lab is the centerpiece of their curriculum, which allows students to study PE workforce development, experiences of children with and without disabilities in physical education, and social and emotional learning of all children.

The podcast episode featuring educators from various universities discussing graduate programs in Adapted Physical Education (APE) continues with an exploration of challenges and opportunities facing these programs. This episode features an insightful discussion with representatives from four outstanding APE graduate programs across the United States. Dr. Ali Brian kicks things off, representing the University of South Carolina's 100% online program. With a focus on flexibility and practical application, USC's program stands out for its emphasis on developmental perspectives and hands-on experience. Next up, Dr. Amanda Young sheds light on California State University, Long Beach's Master's program. Boasting tracks tailored for both general and adapted PE teachers, CSULB's curriculum emphasizes behavior management, collaboration, and cutting-edge instructional design. Dr. Brock McMullen represents University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse, which has a long history of developing strong APE professionals. Lastly, Dr. Amaury Samalot-Rivera provides an overview of the innovative APE MS program at SUNY Brockport University. Throughout the episode, listeners gain valuable insights into coursework, assignments, practicum experiences, and more. From innovative projects tackling behavior management to the integration of technology and universal design principles, each program offers a unique approach to preparing educators for the diverse challenges of Adapted PE.

In this episode of What's New in Adapted Physical Education we have special guest hosts podcast Dr. Brock McMullen and Dr. Garth Tymeson (UW-Lacrosse) who interview three parents - Marlis, Pam, and Andrea - about their experiences with adapted physical education for their children with disabilities. Each parent represents children at different ages and places within the APE and special education process. Specifically in this conversation, they discuss how APE and physical activity provide enables social participation with non-disabled peers, the quantifications they look for in an APE teacher, and their constant need to advocate for APE to their schools. Further in the podcast, they discuss several different organizations and associations that can be used to effectively advocate for APE services.

Listen in on the December NCPEID APE Collaborative focused on working with paraprofessionals in APE. This episode features guests Dr. Seo Lee (University of Wisconsin Superior), Ginny Reid (Orange County Department of Education), and Wendy Arteaga (Orange County Department of Education). In this podcast they address the challenges faced by paraprofessionals in the field of APE, such as limited resources, varying levels of training, and the need for effective communication. Our guests also offer real-life scenarios and offer practical solutions to empower paraprofessionals in overcoming these challenges.

In this podcast, we discuss the Fit Families program, an initiative focused on empowering parents of children with disabilities. Drs. Luis Columna and Laura Prieto (@LaAlma_Prieto) from the University of Wisconsin Madison share insights. Fit Families originated as a program for visually impaired children but expanded to include those with autism. Fit Families provides parents of children with disabilities expert-driven workshops that cover sensory-motor activities, communication, and aquatics. The program has positively impacted parents' awareness, advocacy skills, and children's self-confidence and motor skills. The panelists highlight community engagement, effective communication, and ongoing research as crucial to providing a lasting impact of these families and their physical activity (and overall quality of life). The program aims to expand, with a focus on reaching Latino communities. Barriers like funding and language are also discussed, emphasizing the need for tailored programs for diverse communities.

Listen in on the October NCPEID APE Collaborative focused on young teachers and professors experiences in their first year on the job. his episode feature guests Dr. Samantha Ross (West Virginia University), Dr. Layne Case (California State University, Chico), Elsie Gutierrez (LA Unified Schools), and Ivan Reyes-Acosta (LA Unified Schools). In this panel discussion, they share insights on tackling tasks, being patient, staying true to oneself, building connections, and the importance of having fun in teaching APE. They also highlight the challenges of setting schedules, the significance of mentorship, and the support provided through mentoring programs for first-year APE teachers.

In this exciting episode of What's New in Adapted PE, Dr. David Howe was interviewed about his career journey and the status of ableism (and attempts to overcome it) within physical activity settings. Dr. Howe (@pdhowe9) is a Professor in the School of Kinesiology at the University of Western Ontario. He is a former Paralympian and has conducted extensive research in physical activity cultures related to disability sport and related health outcomes. Within this conversation, we discussed a range of topics related to Dr. Howe's career and the many facets of ableism seen within physical activity contexts. These conversations included topics around the need for disability representation within our academics and practitioners, potential pitfalls of tokenism, and questioning the need for the existence of the field of adapted physical activity. This conversation was guided by Dr. Howe's keynote speech at the International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity (2023).

In another exciting episode of What's New in APE, we interviewed Lindsey Nowland (@LindseyNowland), a PhD candidate from Old Dominion University, about her research expertise in adapted physical education (APE), particularly focusing on self-efficacy when teaching students with disabilities in PE settings. Lindsay shares her journey into this field, highlighting her experiences and her transition from general physical education to APE. Further, we talk about the importance of self-efficacy in PE teachers, specifically exploring the four sources of self-efficacy: mastery experiences, vicarious experiences, social persuasion, and physiological responses. Ms. Nowland emphasizes the need to measure these sources more comprehensively in research to better understand how they impact PE teachers' beliefs and confidence.

Listen in on the September NCPEID APE Collaborative focused Parenting, Professionalism, and Hot Topics in APE. This episode feature re-occurring guests Danielle Musser (Colorado APE Teacher), Amanda Young (Assistant Professor, Caledonia State University, Long Beach), and Chris Ahrens (APE teacher and coordinator, San Diego Unfired). This panel delves into various compelling subjects concerning the field of APE and the intricate balance of personal life experiences. They explore topics such as managing the dual roles of parenting and professional advancement, delving into the transformation of one's career after becoming a parent, and strategies for navigating these life-changing experiences. NCPEID is the National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities. They play a major role in shaping the direction of adapted physical education and adapted physical activity, as well building and promoting APE & APA programs and services.

Hello, What's New in APE podcast listeners! In this episode, we highlight the journey and experiences of Dr. Lisa Silliman-French, a Professor Emerita at Texas Woman's University with over 35 years of experience in APE. This interview is conducted by two master's scholars from California State University Long Beach, Nikki and Anthony. Dr. Silliman-French shares her journey into APE, starting as a general physical education teacher and discovering her passion for teaching students with disabilities during her undergraduate courses and practicum experience. She discusses her rewarding experiences in higher education, emphasizing the joy of teaching, mentoring doctoral students, and building strong relationships with students. Dr. Silliman-French also highlights her involvement in obtaining a personal preparation grant to fund graduate scholars in APE, emphasizing the importance of effective teamwork and collaboration in her successes. Overall, Dr. Silliman-French provides insight into her rich career and her commitment to advancing the field of APE.

In this episode of What's New in APE, special guest host Dr. Melissa Bittner (@ ) takes us backstage for the upcoming NAPEC conference to preview some of the upcoming keynote speakers and special sessions. Specifically, the NAPEC52 co-coordinators, Heidi Ambrosius (Moreno Valley Unified School District; Lecturer CSU San Bernardino) & Lemi Hayashi (Fremont Unified School District) are interviewed about the conference as a whole and putting the conference together. The session "The Art & Science of Positive Behavior Management to Enhance Student Learning" is previewed by session leaders Barry Lavay (Professor Emeritus CSU, Long Beach;), Amanda Young (Assistant Professor CSU Long Beach). Leslie Kirui (Placentia/Yorba Linda USD), and Julie Williams (Moreno Valley USD). They discuss how this workshop will highlight the importance of developing a behavior management philosophy, as well as provide a variety of methods to (a) design a management plan that includes well-established routines, (b) increase appropriate behaviors and (c) redirect challenging behaviors to assist all teachers in connecting with their students to promote effective learning in adapted physical activity settings. This session will take place on Friday from 2-5 p.m. and cost $20. Next, the Keynote "Shine Through Your Story" is previewed by keynote speaker Jen Heebink, who is the 2022 SHAPE America National Adapted PE Teacher of the Year, 2022 Central District Adapted PE Teacher of the Year, and 2020 MNSHAPE Adapted PE Teacher of the Year. Finally, the Keynote presentation "Let’s Shine Brighter!" is discussed by keynote presenter Greg Bellinder (professor, Azusa Pacific University).

In this podcast, we had an excellent conversation with international APA scholar Dr. Kwok Ng (@kwokwng) about the newly formed Para Report Cards that graded 14 countries, which include the US and Canada, on an assortment of physical activity and health indicators. Dr. Ng is at the University of Limerick, the University of Turku, and the University of Eastern Finland. His research is largely interdisciplinary and focuses on the health promotion of children, especially those with disabilities. Within this podcast we discuss the need for the Para Report Cards, their development, and some of the main findings from the Para Report Cards. In addition, the discussion also touched on the potential impact of these report cards on policies and initiatives aimed at improving physical activity for children and adolescents with disabilities.

Listen in on the May NCPEID APE Collaborative focused on summer camps for children with disabilities. In this episode, 3 summer camps are highlighted: Camp Webber (Ally Keene), Camp Abilities (Lauren Liberman), and Camp Nugget (Amanda Young). In this episode they describe how these experiences not only provide children with disabilities experiences with physical activity with their peers, but also serve as an experience for future professionals to put theory into practice and develop essential skills for working with children with disabilities. More specifically, in this episode they highlight the unique aspects of each of these camps, the counselors and children's experience, and the research around these camps. NCPEID is the National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities. They play a major role in shaping the direction of adapted physical education and adapted physical activity, as well building and promoting APE & APA programs and services.

Listen in on this exciting conversation with international APA disability sports scholar Dr. Robert Townsend (@robtownsendPhD) from the University of Waikato in New Zealand. Dr. Townsend's work is largely interdisciplinary, where he works to bridge qualitative research, social science and disability studies to build upon disability and sport coaching research while dismantling ablest norms that disrupt disabled persons ability to access meaningful sport opportunities. In this episode, we focus on Dr. Townsend's background in APA and disability sports, defining and discussing the state of disability sports coaching, and the notion of infusing disability sports coaching into general sport coaching pedagogy programs. We used his paper "Infusing disability into coach education and development: a critical review and agenda for change" to guide our discussions as well.

Welcome to a unique and special episode of "What's New in APE," where we pay tribute to the remarkable legacy of Eli Wolff, an eminent advocate and leader in the field of disability sports. As a distinguished multiple-time US Paralympian, Eli devoted himself to promoting the inclusion of disabled individuals in sports and physical activities. One of Eli's impactful endeavors was his instrumental role in advocating for provisions concerning sport and recreation within the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Additionally, he played a key part in establishing the prestigious ESPY Award for Best Athlete with a Disability. Three of Eli's closest friends and colleagues came on the podcast to remember Eli's work and achievements. This included Dr. Mary Hums (University of Louisville), Dr. David Legg (Mount Royal University), and Dr. Ted Fey (Recently retired from SUNY Cortland). They share heartfelt accounts of their relationships with Eli and recount inspiring stories of how he consistently fostered tangible and meaningful changes for the disability community.

Listen in on the May NCPEID APE Collaborative that features 3 SHAPE APE Teachers of the Year: Katelyn Smith (Rock Creek School, MD), Jennifer Heebink (Buffalo, MN), and Kasia Givenrod (Brea Unified School District, CA). In this episode they discuss their top teaching tips they have learned over their careers. This includes discussing different teaching styles, assessment, IEP strategies, accommodations/modifications, and skill breakdowns. NCPEID is the National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities. They play a major role in shaping the direction of adapted physical education and adapted physical activity, as well building and promoting APE & APA programs and services. https://www.ncpeid.org/

The "Best in the Business" episode was moderated by Project CAPE Master Scholars from the California State University of Long Beach. Scholars observed 3 APE teachers in Southern CA who were purposively selected for their teaching abilities, numerous accolades, commitment to the profession, and diverse student population. During these practicum experiences, scholars would teach a class and the mentor provided feedback. The Scholars, along with Drs. Melissa Bittner and Barry Lavay interview these mentors about their professional journeys, tips on best practices when teaching APE, and get into assessment as well. Finally, the podcast wraps up with our new favorite segment called "Barry's Burning Questions", where he discusses the use of podcasting amongst APE/PE teachers for professional learning. Project CAPE Scholars include: Nikki Thornburg, Dana Briosos, and Anthony Tang. The "Best in the Business" Mentors include: Kasia Givenrod (Brea Unified School District), Brittani Ikemoto (Los Angeles Unified School District), and Enrique Gonzalez (Garden Grove Unified School District).