EDUC 435 - Methods and Materials of Teaching Physical Education

3 Credits
3 hours per week.

This course aims to help the pre- service teacher gain an understanding of the methods and the conduct of learning experiences in physical education as related to the total school program in grades K-12. It emphasizes physical education as a medium of educating the whole individual. Attention is given to an analysis of the teacher’s instructional and planning activities, and the scope of his/her professional duties; the aims and objectives of physical education; the underlying factors and principles related to the selection of method and procedures; the use of management techniques appropriate for elementary and secondary schools; the use of resource materials; and the generation of lesson plans. Specifically, this course is designed to assist the pre-service teacher: (1) in the use of effective verbal, nonverbal and media communications to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interactions in the classroom; and, (2) in the application of effective planning, management and instructional techniques that are based on knowledge of the content area, and on community and curriculum needs. This course serves two integrative functions as it proposes to teach the pre-service teacher: (1) to integrate the competencies and knowledge acquired in major, professional and pedagogical courses to create learning experiences that make the central concepts, tools of inquiry and structures of the content area meaningful for all students; and, (2) to create learning experiences that build on the experiential, cultural, racial, gender and socioeconomic diversity of students in order that they might achieve higher levels of learning. Knowledge and procedures required for the successful implementation of State and National Assessment outcomes for physical education are addressed. Requisite: Pre-service teachers enrolled in methods courses are required to participate in practicum experiences in the public schools.

Prerequisite(s) Completion of all professional education requirements, senior status, and admission to the Teacher Education Program.