A literature review on peer-based intervention for students with physical disabilities

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the trends of peer-based intervention research for students with physical disabilities. Method: A total of 18 domestic and foreign studies were selected and analyzed in terms of participants, research methodologies, settings, intervention types, goals, and effects. Results: First, most of the participants had severe physical and multiple disabilities, and they were participated in kindergartens and elementary schools. Second, the multiple baseline design across participants was the most frequently used research design and most of the interventions were conducted in inclusive classrooms. Third, peer-based interventions were analyzed as peer-mediated intervention and adult-mediated intervention. 13 studies used peer-mediated intervention, 12 studies used adult-mediated intervention, and 5 studies used both. Fourth, in many studies, social interaction and happiness of students with disabilities were frequently used as intervention goals. Conclusion: Based on analysis and synthesis of the findings, directions for future research and implications for practice were discussed.