The Experiences and Implications of the Homeroom Teacher on Physical Activity Education for the Lower Elementary Grades

Abstract

Objectives This study explored the reality of physical activity education in the lower grades through the experi-ences of elementary school teachers and made suggestions for strengthening and revitalizing physical activity ed-ucation in the lower grades. Methods Four lower elementary school classroom teachers interested in and experienced in physical activity edu-cation were selected as participants in the study, and data were collected through in-dept interviews and analysis of literature and documents. The collected data were analyzed through Yin’s five-step analytical cycle, and the an-alyzed data were subjected to triangulation, participant verification, and peer review to enhance the validity of the study. Results In “Students Growing Up Physically Active,” teachers believed that lower elementary students love to be physically active and that diverse and active physical education can help them adjust to school life and grow physi-cally, mentally, and emotionally. However, in “Teachers who are overwhelmed by physical activity,” teachers felt burdened and challenged to teach physical activity due to a variety of factors. In “Teaching Physical Activity Necessary,” there was a lack of physical activity in the lower elementary curriculum and a lack of physical activity education in schools. Conclusions In order to strengthen and revitalize physical activity education in the lower grades of elementary school, we suggested strengthening the importance of basic movement competency education in the lower grades, implementing systematic physical education in the lower grades, improving awareness of physical activity education in the lower grades, and improving the educational environment.