Inclusive PE Research – DCU
Call for Primary Teachers to Participate in Research on Inclusive PE for Children with Visual Impairments
Vision Sports Ireland is pleased to support an important research project led by Niamh Boylan, a Primary School teacher and PhD candidate at Dublin City University (DCU). Niamh’s study, “Supporting Mainstream Primary School Teachers to Include a Child with a Visual Impairment in PE Lessons,” aims to better understand the experiences of teachers working with children who have visual impairments and to develop practical, school informed supports that make PE more inclusive across mainstream settings.
The research focuses on collaborating closely with teachers, children, and school staff to develop meaningful, evidence based resources. As part of the study, participating schools will be involved in:
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Observations of 3–5 PE lessons taught by the class teacher.
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Short feedback sessions with class teachers, Special Education Teachers (SETs), and SNAs who support a child with a visual impairment.
- 2 focus groups 2 focus groups with a group of 6 children from each participating class to include the child with a visual impairment following the initial and final observed lessons.
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The creation of a Community of Practice, providing school professionals with a space to share experiences, discuss challenges, and offer feedback on the development of the new resources.
Throughout the study, the class teacher will receive ongoing support from Niamh in her role as researcher. The resources designed through this project will be directly informed by the lived experiences of teachers, children, and school staff, ensuring they are practical, relevant, and supportive for educators working to make PE more inclusive for learners with visual impairments.
Vision Sports Ireland encourages principals, teachers, and schools who feel this research could benefit their staff and pupils to consider taking part. This is a valuable opportunity to contribute to national understanding and development of inclusive PE practices.
Read about Niamh’s research to date below:
How to Get Involved
If your school or any teacher on your staff is interested in participating or would like further information, please contact Niamh Boylan directly at: niamh.boylan7@mail.dcu.ie