Start Date
19-6-2025 9:00 AM
End Date
19-6-2025 10:30 AM
Abstract
Physical literacy (PL) has emerged as an innovative approach to promoting lifelong engagement in physical activity for individuals of all abilities, emphasizing holistic development and personal growth. While widely integrated into fields such as physical education, sport, and public health, its application within the intersection of community-based recreation and disability remains underexplored. This study, part of a broader project examining community needs and organizational capacity for fostering PL, investigates its meaning, value, and the supports needed to ensure equitable development opportunities for all individuals, regardless of age or ability. Guided by the communities of practice theoretical model, a multiple case study design was used to explore five purposefully selected community-based recreation organizations. Data collection included face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with organizational staff, inclusive of volunteers, front-line workers, practitioners, supervisors, and administrators, supplemented with direct observations, program document analysis, and reflexive engagement. An ongoing inductive thematic analysis has identified four preliminary themes: (1) creating inclusive and personalized experiences, (2) equipping and empowering staff, (3) improving organizational practices and resources, and (4) advancing understanding and advocacy for PL. These findings underscore the pivotal role community-based recreation organizations play in supporting PL development for diverse populations. However, the findings also highlight a need for increased education and training on PL and strategies for inclusive facilitation to ensure equitable, consistent opportunities for all individuals.
Recommended Citation
Pushkarenko, Kyle, "Exploring community-based organizations and their efforts to foster the physical literacy journey for all" (2025). International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness. 8.
https://sword.mtu.ie/isapa/2025/day4/8
Exploring community-based organizations and their efforts to foster the physical literacy journey for all
Physical literacy (PL) has emerged as an innovative approach to promoting lifelong engagement in physical activity for individuals of all abilities, emphasizing holistic development and personal growth. While widely integrated into fields such as physical education, sport, and public health, its application within the intersection of community-based recreation and disability remains underexplored. This study, part of a broader project examining community needs and organizational capacity for fostering PL, investigates its meaning, value, and the supports needed to ensure equitable development opportunities for all individuals, regardless of age or ability. Guided by the communities of practice theoretical model, a multiple case study design was used to explore five purposefully selected community-based recreation organizations. Data collection included face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with organizational staff, inclusive of volunteers, front-line workers, practitioners, supervisors, and administrators, supplemented with direct observations, program document analysis, and reflexive engagement. An ongoing inductive thematic analysis has identified four preliminary themes: (1) creating inclusive and personalized experiences, (2) equipping and empowering staff, (3) improving organizational practices and resources, and (4) advancing understanding and advocacy for PL. These findings underscore the pivotal role community-based recreation organizations play in supporting PL development for diverse populations. However, the findings also highlight a need for increased education and training on PL and strategies for inclusive facilitation to ensure equitable, consistent opportunities for all individuals.