ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses teaching physical education to students with disabilities. It provides the importance of physical education and the historical foundations of adapted physical education (APE) and activity. APE is an individualized program of physical and motor fitness, fundamental motor skills and patterns, skills in aquatics and dance, and individual and group games and sports designed for students with disabilities. The chapter describes the theoretical and philosophical foundations of the profession. It offers contemporary perspectives on inclusion and universal design in physical education. Universal design is a set of principles, conceptual frameworks, mindsets, and processes for the design of a wide range of educational products, technologies, curricula, and environments that support access and opportunity for all students. The chapter focuses on the roles and responsibilities of highly qualified physical educators and the need for specialized knowledge, self-reflection, and effective teaching behaviors in this profession. Possessing content knowledge is also essential for a highly qualified general physical education teacher.
