Physical education in the curriculum : students\u27 attitudes and perceptions of physical education

Abstract

This case study examines the importance of physical education in the school curriculum. Physical education programs are being eliminated from the core curriculum in school all across the United States. PE classes are now being reduced for academic classes and our students are often not receiving enough physical activity outside of school. As a result of eliminating school PE programs and physical inactivity, our students are missing the qualities brought forth by a quality program. Many children have become overweight and are at risk for obesity. The study reports students\u27 attitudes and perceptions of physical education in one high school in California. The main findings from the data were that students were active only when they were enrolled in physical education classes and were rarely physically active outside class. The conclusion recommends an implementation of a four-year physical education program for all high school students