This project will train 25 scholars in a Master's degree program in Adapted Physical Education with the competencies of a highly qualified adapted physical educator prepared to work with children with disabilities, ages 3-22 years of age. Program graduates will be eligible for teacher licensure in physical education and national certification in adaptive physical education. METHOD: Activities of this project include: (a) developing and implementing intensified recruiting strategies to ensure equal access and treatment for eligible project participants in underrepresented groups; (b) providing extended clinical learning opportunities, field experiences (or supervised practica), and ongoing high-quality mentoring and induction opportunities through partnerships with local educational agencies; (c) integrating into coursework and practicum experiences evidence-based practices for effectively teaching children from diverse backgrounds and children with autism, and collaborating with general education personnel and families. Universal design for learning principles and instructional practices, instructional and assistive technologies, and data-based decision making will be incorporated into coursework and field-based experiences. Use of technology will be integrated into delivery of content to scholars and support the practices of scholars in practicum settings.
Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC)
Autism Research Database (AFD)
