Teachers on Fostering Personal and Social Development in Primary School Physical Education

Abstract

Physical education is more than just teaching motor skills and learning to move better. Its social and interactive nature offers unique opportunities for children to develop personal and social skills, such as communication, collaboration, and leadership. These skills are not only valuable within physical education but also contribute to broader goals such as citizenship education. Although there is growing attention to children’s personal and social development, little is known about how physical education teachers interpret and apply these goals in practice, and what support they need to do so effectively. The findings of this dissertation show that teachers consider the development of personal and social skills important, yet they are also seeking the right balance. How can they teach children personal and social skills whilst also ensuring that they improve their movement skills and remain as active as possible? Furthermore, we observe that there is often no systematic approach to fostering personal and social skills. The broader significance of this theme calls for a school-wide strategy and ongoing professional support for teachers. This dissertation emphasizes the multidimensional nature of physical education and demonstrates that it encompasses more than the mere acquisition of motor skills. The insights gained through this dissertation can serve as a foundation for future research, curriculum advancement, and sustainable professional development, with the aim of realizing the full potential of physical education.