Credit Hour Analysis of Adapted Physical Education Courses in Higher Education

Abstract

Adapted physical education (APE) is a critical piece to the physical education puzzle. However, this topic is often overlooked from a preparation standpoint in physical education teacher education (PETE). The purpose of this study was to analyze the number of APE credit hours offered in undergraduate PETE programs across the United States. The 2018 Carnegie Classifications were used to help differentiate between types of institutions. Ranging degrees of institutional classification may be a contributing factor to the number and type of credit hours offered. Data analysis indicated that majority of PETE programs in the United States only offer one APE course in the PETE curriculum. Findings from this study are critical to understanding the preparation of preservice physical education teachers (PPETs) in PETE. Findings may also contribute to a conversation on credit hour allocation and whether PPETs are being sufficiently prepared to teach in an inclusive and adapted environment.