The Effectiveness of an e-Learning Program for Educating Physical Activity Professionals on Supporting Autistic...

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Education Technology
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Physical activity (PA) offers significant benefits for autistic individuals.
• Barriers exist in PA engagement for autistic individuals, notably a lack of support from PA professionals.
• Existing professional development may not adequately prepare PA professionals to support autistic individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness and practicality of an e-learning program designed to enhance PA professionals' ability to support autistic individuals.
• To investigate changes in PA professionals' intention and confidence in supporting autistic individuals post-intervention.
• To explore the utility of e-learning as a tool for fostering inclusive PA practices.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental, one-group pretest-posttest design was employed.
• Forty-nine PA professionals participated in the 'Strong Minds Through Active Bodies' e-learning program.
• Data were collected through pre- and post-evaluations measuring intention, confidence, and program practicality.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed across all measured constructs of the theory of planned behavior.
• PA professionals reported high levels of confidence and intention to support autistic individuals post-program.
• The e-learning module received positive feedback regarding its practicality and relevance.

Conclusions:

• Tailored e-learning is effective in enhancing PA professionals' understanding and confidence in supporting autistic individuals.
• E-learning offers a scalable solution to improve the inclusivity of PA programs.
• Further research should explore leveraging e-learning to create more accessible and engaging PA environments for autistic individuals.