Establishing new sport-specific classification rules for athletes with a vision impairment

Research Group

Vision and Hearing Sciences Research Group

Proposed supervisory team

Prof Peter Allen

Dr Ash Willmott

Theme

Vision Impairment

Summary of the research project

The objective of this VI Classification Research project is to develop an evidence based, sport-specific classification system for athletes with a vision impairment for one sport (there are a few options). This is a requirement in order for sports to adhere to the International Paralympic Committee’s Code of Classification.

The project will entail collecting opinions from key stakeholders regarding the requirements for a new sport-specific classification system.

The project research team will perform data collections with able-sighted athletes in order to determine the Minimum Impairment Criteria.

The project research team will perform data collections with athletes with a vision impairment in order to determine the number of classes required for those deemed eligible to compete.

Some knowledge of vision is preferred but not essential.

Some knowledge of sport is preferred but not essential.

A knowledge of quantitative methodology is required, and qualitative methodology preferred.

For further information contact Peter Allen on peter.allen@aru.ac.uk

Where you'll study

Cambridge

Funding

This project is self-funded.

Details of studentships for which funding is available are selected by a competitive process and are advertised on our jobs website as they become available.

Next steps

If you wish to be considered for this project, you will need to apply for our Optometry and Vision Sciences PhD. In the section of the application form entitled 'Outline research proposal', please quote the above title and include a research proposal.