Experts’ knowledge about leisure education and leadership development: Building capacity of youth with physical disabilities in South Africa

Makhaya Malema, Marie Young, Barry Andrews, Lisa Wegner

Article ID: 6880
Vol 8, Issue 16, 2024

VIEWS - 27 (Abstract) 19 (PDF)

Abstract


Leisure education has an impact not only on individuals but also on the environment and society. The present study aimed to explore and describe experts’ knowledge and experience about leisure education to develop leadership among youth with physical disabilities. The present study used a qualitative research approach through an exploratory design to answer the research question. Five participants were purposefully recruited and selected based on their expertise in the topic of interest. Participants’ expertise ranged from leisure, recreation, youth and leadership. The participants had experience working in higher education institutions, and community projects, held doctorate qualifications, and have over ten years in this field. Data was collected online using Google Meet software using semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions. Data was analyzed using a thematic analysis framework and guidelines. The findings of this study suggest that youth with physical disabilities can develop personal capacity through leisure education programmes. Leisure education programmes can be meaningful to youth with physical disabilities and have a developmental impact, including leadership. Youth with physical disabilities’ capacities and abilities should be nurtured and protected to allow growth and independence. The implications are that leisure education programmes for leadership development must be intentional to achieve the intended outcome.


Keywords


capacity building; leisure education; leadership development; youth with disabilities; Sustainable Development Goals

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.24294/jipd6880

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