Journey from Volunteering to Research A Bilingual Classification Guide and Case-Based Pathways for Para Sport Participation

Abstract

Background: Para sport can advance rehabilitation, health, confidence, and social participation, yet newcomers often face information gaps and difficulty navigating classification and first steps. This project developed Power in Motion, a bilingual (English/Korean) plain-language guide that explains classification, links to official rules, and organizes impairment-based entry pathways. We paired the guide with case-mapped recommendations to test practical use. Methods: We used a practical qualitative workflow integrating (1) participant observation at classification events, training sites, and hospitals in Korea (2018–2025); (2) development of a bilingual guide featuring classification basics, an impairment–sport mapping table, concise sport pages with current rule links and minimum impairment criteria, and curated federation/hospital contacts; and (3) individualized pathway design for two adults. Field notes informed thematic analysis and guide structure. Case work was retrospective, de-identified, and exempt from full institutional review. Results: Observations highlighted three barrier domains: information/language(uncertainty about eligibility and where to begin), structural/administrative (classifier shortages, event-only scheduling, centralization), and psychological (early discouragement and fear of a “wrong class”). The guide enabled rapid scanning of eligible sports and direct access to authoritative