Understanding Physical Activity in UK Schools
Author Information
Author(s): Boyle Spencer Earl, Jones Georgina L, Walters Stephen J
Primary Institution: University of Sheffield
Hypothesis
What are the barriers and facilitators to physical activity among adolescents from the perspective of heads of physical education and heads of schools?
Conclusion
Despite many positive perceptions of the delivery of PE in schools, it is evident that barriers still exist within that delivery which discourages physical activity.
Supporting Evidence
- Teachers reported that time constraints were a major barrier to physical activity in schools.
- Many teachers felt that the current curriculum undervalued physical education.
- Teachers expressed concerns that children's fitness levels have declined over the years.
- Some teachers believed that elitism in sports discouraged mass participation among less able students.
- Teachers noted that parental influence is significant in children's physical activity levels.
Takeaway
This study talked to teachers about how kids can be more active in school. They found that even though teachers want kids to be active, there are still many things that make it hard for them.
Methodology
Seventeen semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with heads of physical education and heads of schools in the Northwest and Southwest of England.
Potential Biases
The lead author’s background as a former PE teacher may have influenced data collection and analysis.
Limitations
The study had a low response rate from heads of schools, with only 5% participating, which may limit the representativeness of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 17 teachers, with 11 from the Northwest and 6 from the Southwest, consisting of 5 female and 10 male heads of physical education.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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