Graduate Research Papers

Availability

Open Access Graduate Research Paper

Abstract

Children are spending more time in community care facilities (i.e., after-school programs, day camp, etc.) and are interacting with other children of mixed abilities on a more consistent basis. Therefore, acceptable social skills and possessing the ability to interact and communicate effectively are of vital importance. The basis of this study was to examine and identify key components that generated positive and reciprocated social interactions between children of all abilities in an inclusive recreational program. Participants selected for this study were school-aged children of varying physical and/or cognitive abilities. All children utilized the services of the Family YMCA of Black Hawk County Together We Play (TWP) program, a multi-agency inclusion service during the summer of 2006. TWP "coordinates the inclusion process that best serves the child, parent, and recreation agencies." The analysis of the data consisted of two primary tools: (a) the Analysis of Social Interactions (ASI) form, and (b) the Daily Interaction reconciliation form. The ASI examined the type, quality and attributes of each communicative and/or social interaction that occurred between the children with disabilities and other program participants within a specific timeframe. The Daily Interaction reconciliation form examined the quantitative aspects of the interactions that transpired. The results of this study indicate positive social interaction patterns increased between all program participants when active, positive, and direct one-on-one contact occurred.

Year of Submission

2007

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

School of Health, Physical Education, and Leisure Services

First Advisor

Kathleen Scholl

Comments

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Date Original

12-2007

Object Description

1 PDF (viii, 79 pages)

Language

en

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