In this episode, we talked with Dr. Ally Keene, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at Elizabeth City State University, about her journey into Adapted Physical Education (APE) and her dissertation on co-producing resources with blind young adults. Her dissertation centered on co-production, a collaborative research approach involving disabled individuals as equal partners. Working alongside three blind young adults, she created the website “Resources and Recommendations for PE Teachers of Blind Students,” hosted by Old Dominion University. The site includes sections on teacher attitudes, accessible fitness opportunities, and advocacy, providing practical tools to help PE teachers better support blind and visually impaired students.
In this discussion they talk both the challenges and value of co-production—highlighting how it deepens understanding, empowers participants, and improves teaching practices. Dr. Keene encourages educators to use collaborative planning tools, involve students in decision-making, and stay open to feedback and reflection. Looking ahead, she aims to evaluate the website’s impact and expand co-production work to other disability communities. Her vision is for an APE field that centers disabled voices and treats their lived experiences as essential expertise.
