Course Outline
Welcome to the Moving to Inclusion Online Learning Tool. This is an effective training and professional development tool for those who are working in or training for a career in recreation, fitness, education, sport and active living fields. The learning tool has been developed to help you plan and lead a wide variety of physical activity programs in ways that include individuals of all abilities, including those who have a disability. Regardless of the activity you lead, be it recreational, competitive or educational in nature, the MTI Online Learning Tool will provide you with key information and practical strategies to offer enjoyable and successful experiences to all individuals. It will identify general concepts, strategies and practical approaches that are useful in planning and leading inclusive physical activities.
The MTI Online Learning Tool includes six (6) Modules and one Appendix with five (5) case studies. Modules 2 to 5 also include a Quiz and Answer Key.
Module 1 – Introduction
The goal is to assist physical activity leaders to focus on the participants and their ABILITIES, not on their disabilities, and to help them include ALL individuals in ALL aspects of physical activity. The MTI Online Learning Tool is designed to help you achieve this outcome.
Module 2 - Inclusion
This Module covers: What is inclusion? Why is it important? How to facilitate inclusion? Almost any type of physical activity or game can be adapted or modified to meet the needs of individuals with varying levels of ability.
Module 3 - Understanding Disability and its Impact on Involvement in Physical Activity
This Module provides a brief overview of the impact of disability on participation in physical activity. There is a set of factors that will influence the participant’s performance in physical activity. Some are internal, some external; some you can change, and others you can’t.
Module 4 – Planning an Inclusive Program
This Module introduces a step-by-step process for inclusion. It identifies what information, sources of information and the individuals who might be able to support the inclusion of a participant with a disability. It also raises awareness of safety considerations.
Module 5 – Making Necessary Modifications
Making modifications is clearly at the centre of the inclusive process. This Module covers how to individualize your activity so that each person can be included, have fun and experience success. There are several aspects of most physical activities that can be manipulated to enhance inclusion and successful participation for all.
Module 6 – Summary
The goals of a physical activity program are applicable and appropriate for all individuals. Providing the opportunity to grow in dignity and self-esteem through participation in physical activity programs is a right that should be open to all participants. As an activity leader, you play a vital role in ensuring that individuals of all abilities are active participants in your programs.
Appendix 1 – Case Studies
These case studies provide examples of applying the Moving to Inclusion planning process to different scenarios that span recreational, educational and coaching settings.
- A Physical Education Class
- A Little League Coaching Scenario
- Community-based Saturday Morning Recreational Program
- A Competitive Sports Club Coaching Situation
- An Aerobic Fitness Class