Improvising physical education equipment : a case study

Abstract

A major objective of the Physical Education programme is to help children develop fundamental movements skills and concepts that will enable them to become skillful movers. In achieving this aim the intelligent choice of appropriate equipment and its availability in the right amount and variety is of paramount importance. However, because of budget limitations the local scene leaves much to be desired. This study therefore attempts to try to find ways and means to address the current situation. The Introduction to the study describes how the researcher became interested in the improvisation of P .E. equipment. The Literature Review provides the reader with insights of the state and status of P .E. both in Malta and abroad. It also describes the 'Movement Alphabet' and highlights the benefits of equipment improvisation. The Methodology Chapter outlines the procedures followed in conducting the Case Study to investigate the possibility of creating 'home-made' equipment and evaluate its efficiency. The Chapter of Results examines and analyses samples of activities created by the children who participated in the Case Study, using improvised equipment. It also includes the feedback obtained from the children regarding theevaluation of the 'Equipment Improvisation Project'. The Conclusion Chapter suggests ways in which the Teacher's Manual (appendix 7) - compiled by the researcher as part of this study - could be utilised by other teachers to conduct similar projects to fulfil the requirements of holistic development of the National Minimum Curriculum through Physical Education.