The impact of an orientation and mobility internship program at a summer sports camp for children who are visually impaired: A qualitative study

Orientation and mobility (O&M) provides individuals with visual impairments the skills needed for independent travel and community participation. Despite training requirements, including 350+ internship hours, research on internship experiences remains limited. Short-term programs, such as 1-week sports camps, offer experiential learning opportunities that help interns fulfill required competencies and hours. This qualitative study examined the experiences of seven O&M interns and seven youth athletes with visual impairments at a sports camp through written accounts, observations, and focus groups. Three themes emerged: (1) experiential learning and skill development, (2) strategies fostering independence, and (3) challenges to skill acquisition. Findings emphasize the role of multidisciplinary collaboration between O&M and adapted physical education (APE) specialists in promoting O&M skills and confidence among athletes. However, barriers like unclear roles, limited guidance, and Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) competency concerns highlight the need for improved preparation and communication. Camps provide valuable real-world practice, reinforcing the importance of transdisciplinary practice and collaboration with APE specialists.