Physical education : an aimless discharge of energy or an investment? : an analysis of the current situation & perceptions of physical education at the primary level (Years 4, 5 and 6)

Abstract

The overall purpose of this study is to identify the place and programme of physical education in the primary school years. It is also intended to provide up-to-date information about current practices and trends in physical education in local primary schools (Years 4, 5 and 6). The first three Chapters in Part I cover the "Literature Review". Chapter 1 discusses the educational needs of children and illustrates the connection between physical education and children's holistic education. The second chapter focuses on primary schools and their curricula, along with the role and place of physical education in the primary curriculum. Chapter Three highlights the process of growth and describes how physical education can be a setting for the successful resolution of the developmental issues of childhood. In Part II, "Research", the chapter on Methodology describes the procedures followed to obtain the data for the study. Analysis and discussion of the findings are presented in Chapters 5 and 6. The aim behind the research was to discover existing practices in primary physical education and how far they related to the aims of physical education. Information was sought from children and teachers about physical education time and how that time is used. Teachers' and children's opinions and comments on various aspects of physical education are also examined. Chapter 7 in Part III, which focuses on "Outcomes", concludes the study with suggestions and ideas that are thought to improve children's physical education in our primary schools.