Estratégias de inclusão na educação física escolar: percepções e prática dos professores em relação aos alunos autistas

Abstract

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that involves delays and impairments in the areas of social interaction and language, including a wide range of emotional, cognitive, motor and sensory symptoms. It affects areas of development such as communication, social interaction and is generally associated with repetitive behaviors (stereotypies), being classified into levels of support one, two or three. In this perspective, the objective of the study was to identify the strategies used by Physical Education teachers to include students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The work was developed through a qualitative cross-sectional field research, in which the sample was composed of three Physical Education teachers from three municipal schools in the urban area of ​​Monsenhor Hipólito-PI. As a research instrument, a semi-structured questionnaire with sociodemographic questions and 05 (five) categories was applied: I - Understanding about ASD; II - Understanding about inclusion; III - Strategies for including students with ASD in Physical Education classes; IV - Motor, cognitive and social development of the student; and V – Additional suggestions for the inclusion of students with ASD. The data were analyzed using content assessment developed in three stages: pre-analysis, analytical description and, finally, referential interpretation. The analysis showed that in Physical Education classes, strategies to assist students with ASD focus on adapting the environment, with activities such as games, activities, dances, stretching and individual and collective support. However, the inclusion of these students is still limited. Teachers highlighted the need for training and for schools to offer educational methods and resources. There is a significant demand for specialization, especially among those without specific training, which hinders inclusion and can harm students' development.