Research needs for the development of evidence-based systems of classification for physical, vision and intellectual impairments

The purpose of classification in Paralympic sport is to promote participation in sport by people with disabilities by minimizing the impact of eligible types of impairment on the outcome of competition. This chapter provides detail on key elements of research design and measurement methods required for the development of evidence-based classification, thereby assisting researchers to improve the effectiveness of classification-focused research. It is divided into two sections. The first provides a brief overview of the structure of Paralympic sport, highlighting what sports must do to ensure that their classification systems are compliant with the requirements of the IPC. The second section provides a summary of how the principles articulated in the Position Stand can be operationally translated into programs of research, paying particular attention to important differences between physical, vision, and intellectual impairment. The chapter presents several steps, each of which represents an essential stage required for developing evidence-based systems of classification