Browsing by Author "Seppälä, Jenna"

The purpose of the study was to find out what challenges may arise with a child with Asperger in elementary school physical education. Previous studies have pointed out that most of the children need special forms of support to be successful in studies. In addition, motor difficulties and unsuitable instruction have shown to have a negative connection in individual’s motivation towards exercise. The study was conducted as a narrative figurative literature view. The purpose was to find out what kind of research can be found on special characteristics of Asperger’s Syndrome in physical education and how to support Asperger children during physical education. Materials selected from both Finnish and English databases were Finnish and international books and articles mainly based in the 2000s. Also, Finnish Autism Union website was utilized for additional data. The findings were that special characteristics with children with Asperger’s can cause difficulties in school physical education, but they can also be supported in various ways. Challenges were especially caused by social problems, linguistic difficulties, sensory defensiveness, routines and subjects of interest. In addition, difficulties were found in cognitive control and attention. From forms of supports significant factors were teacher’s competence and personality. On top, support was provided with the help of preliminaries and flexible curriculum.