How to Cope with Bias While Adapting for Inclusion in Physical Education and Sports: A Judgment and Decision-Making Perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe a theoretical model and practice examples of judgment and decision making bias within the context of inclusion in physical education and sports. After presenting the context of adapting for inclusion, the theoretical roots of judgment and decision are described, and are linked to the practice of physical education and sports. The specific concepts of judgment and decision making are then imported into selected examples of inclusive contexts, where events and processes of interest are reconceptualized in judgment and decision making terminology. Intervention strategies for reducing bias among practitioners while engaging in judgment and decision making during inclusive practice are recommended, and research studies aiming at validating and quantifying the distribution of decision making bias in physical education and sports are suggested. Finally, an ecological model is proposed, as well as a framework for identifying biases within professional preparation and service delivery in physical education and sports.

Keywords:

• Special needs
• inclusion
• attitudes
• decision making
• adaptation