Evaluation of the Peer Relationships of Inclusive Students Participating in Physical Education and Play Classes by Teachers

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the peer relationships of students with special educational needs who participate in physical education and play classes. The Teacher Form of the Peer Rejection Scale for Play, Sports, and Physical Activities Course was used as the data collection instrument. The study group consisted of 116 teachers (56 female and 60 male). Participants’ ages ranged from 22 to 46 years (Group 1: 22-27; Group 2: 28-33; Group 3: 34-39; Group 4: 40-45; Group 5: 46 years and above). The sample included 80 married teachers (Group 1) and 36 single teachers (Group 2). Independent samples t-test and one-way ANOVA were used for data analysis.

The findings indicated no significant differences in peer rejection scores in the Play, Sports, and Physical Activities Course according to gender, age, or marital status. However, a significant difference was found in the “problematic behaviors” sub-dimension based on the number of years teachers had worked at their current school. A significant difference was also found in the “physical appearance” sub-dimension according to the grade level taught by teachers. Furthermore, a significant difference was identified in the “speech skills” sub-dimension according to the number of students with special needs...