Teachers' attitudes towards teaching & physical education in the junior years of primary education

Abstract

The following research study focuses on Primary class teachers' attitudes towards teaching of Physical Education. The purpose is to compare and contrast findings with other related literature. The aim of the study is to identify aspects which might be affecting class teachers' attitudes towards conducting Physical Education. Data was gathered through interviews with Primary class teachers teaching Years 4, 5 and 6. Finding from this study will be analysed and discussed as well as compared and contrasted with findings of a published study carried out by the National Audit Office (NAO, 2010). Findings show that respondents who consider themselves as physically active persons seem to be more dedicated and motivated to carry out Physical Education lessons. However, it was also concluded that the time in which students are physically active during school hours is much less than that recommended by the Department for Curriculum Management and eLearning. Reasons given by class teachers included that they are pressured to prioritise other academic material first. In addition, class teachers feel uncomfortable and insecure about teaching Physical Education.