Lampinen, S. (2013). School’s importance of physical activity for students with disabilities: From a teacher’s perspective. Thesis in Public Health. Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies. University of Gävle.

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine how teachers perceive that students in upper secondary education are related to physical activity. And analyze how upper secondary school works to promote physical activity for students with disabilities. Method: The study is based on five qualitative interviews with teachers and activity assistants in a secondary school in northern Sweden. The interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed and analyzed by content analysis. Results: According to the teachers it was important that the students experienced joy in physical activities. Another important aim was that physical education would provide a greater understanding of how lifestyle and physical activities influence health. Various methods were mentioned for promoting physical activity among students. Students’ attitude to physical activity within the school was perceived as positive. It was stated that the students rarely or never saw any barriers to physical activity. The biggest barriers mentioned by the informants were lack of time within the school scheme. Outside the school the most important barrier for physical activities could be the family culture. Conclusion: Based on the study's results we might conclude that the students’ active participation in physical activities and the teacher’s education were important factors in the promotion of physical activities.