The Reality of Sports for People with Special Needs in Algeria: A Field Study on Medical-Pedagogical Centers for the Mentally Disabled

Abstract

This study aims to examine the reality of sports for people with special needs in Algeria in terms of their programs, levels, participants, and means of development. It seeks to answer the following questions: 1- What is the status of physical and sports activities among children with intellectual disabilities in pedagogical medical centers in Algeria regarding (basic sports facilities, applied sports programs, and educators supervising the implementation of sports activity programs)? 2- What difficulties does sports for people with special needs face in Algeria? 3- What are the proposed solutions for developing sports for people with special needs in Algeria? The study was conducted on a sample of 46 directors from pedagogical medical centers for children with intellectual disabilities at the national level. To answer the study questions, the researcher designed a questionnaire directed at the directors, conducted personal interviews, and carried out field observations through visits to some centers to observe their facilities, financial and human resources, and activities in order to verify the information provided in the questionnaire and complete any gaps. The results showed the following: - There are many obstacles facing the practice of Adapted physical activity in pedagogical medical centers.