Interpersonal Development in Special Education: A Photovoice Study on Sportive and Empathy Based Interventions

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Şirinkan A., Alaeddinoğlu V., Şirinkan M., Güler M. Ş.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SPECIAL EDUCATION, cilt.41, sa.6, ss.294-313, 2026 (Scopus)

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 41 Sayı: 6
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Dergi Adı: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SPECIAL EDUCATION
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Education Source Ultimate (EBSCO), Scopus, IBZ Online, Education Abstracts, EBSCO Education Source, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.294-313
  • Atatürk Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Interpersonal development, particularly empathy and social interaction, constitutes a core dimension of special education. However, conventional approaches often fail to capture the lived experiences of individuals with special needs. Participatory methodologies such as photovoice offer a powerful framework for exploring these relational dimensions. This study examines the role of photovoice-based sportive interventions on interpersonal development. Findings indicate improvements in empathy, communication, and social interaction.

Method: This study employed a qualitative participatory action research design using photovoice methodology. The sample consisted of 20 individuals with special needs, 20 volunteer university students, 12 teachers, and 15 parents. Data were collected during a five-day structured sportive activity program through photographs and guided reflection questions. The data were analyzed using content analysis.

Results: Findings revealed significant improvements across interpersonal, emotional, and behavioral domains. Participants demonstrated enhanced communication, social interaction, empathy, and intrinsic motivation. Teacher observations indicated high levels of engagement and participation. Student reflections emphasized emotional transformation and professional awareness, while parent perspectives confirmed improvements in well-being and social inclusion.

Conclusion: Photovoice-based sportive and empathy-oriented interventions effectively enhance interpersonal development in special education, highlighting the importance of participatory and experience-based learning environments