Pupils with Cochlear Implant in Physical Education Class: Review of Recent Scientific Data and Guidelines for Development of Individualized Education Programs

A comprehensive review of the existing scientific literature provides an insight into the size of the population and various anthropological features of children with a cochlear implant (CI) who are integrated in aregular school system. Technical characteristics of a CI are shown together with the potential of technical tools such as FM systems (frequency-modulated) and their use in physical education (PE) classes. Integration of recent findings on various characteristics of children with a CI (medical, physical, communication, speech and language), specifics of motor activities listed in standard PE curriculum and features of the CI device itself has made it possible to establish elaborate guidelines for the creation of individualized education programs(IEP) for children with a CI in the inclusive education setting. The proposed guidelines will enable PE teachers to prepare for teaching children with CI and to modify curriculum and teaching strategies in accordance with individual characteristics of pupils with CI, and in respect of their diverse special education needs (SEN). It is suggested that IEPs are created through the adjustment of the curriculum content and teaching methods, application of the security measures as well as by technical adjustment of teaching using the FM system.