The professionals' perceptions about the MOVE(r) curriculum approach

Abstract

Classically, in Brazil, children with severe neurological impairment have been submitted to intervention methods focused on the improvement of the overall development in controlled clinical environments. However, it has been questioned if the isolated clinical treatment results in important gains in the child's performance in various environments (home, school, community). The Mobility Opportunities Via Education (MOVE(r)) program is a functional approach designed to assess and treat children with severe disabilities. The objective of this study was to understand the perception of the teachers and assistants regarding the MOVE(r) approach in a special education school in the city of Paulínia (SP). This research is a result of a qualitative case study conducted by using semi-structured interviews and categorical data analysis. With the application of the MOVE(r) program in the school, the professionals started having a more human view while taking care of the patients. The importance of motor learning in natural environments, more motivation in the children and improvement in their motor development were emphasized. MOVE(r) was efficient in the perception of the professionals, favoring more motivation in the children and a more human approach with children with motor disabilities.