Physical Education in Urban Charter Schools

• In Event: Roundtable Session 7
  In Roundtable Session: Teacher Development in Physical Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine urban teachers’ perspectives of the unique factors of teaching physical education (PE) in charter schools. Using Flory and McCaughtry's (2011) cultural relevance framework, we studied 6 teachers over an academic school year via lesson observations and in-depth interviews. Four major themes emerged as unique to teaching PE in charter schools, including building and space issues; curricular issues; the lack of a "neighborhood school;" and teachers' White, middle-class backgrounds. This study provides important insights for teacher preparation programs and for future research to improve the relevance and effectiveness of PE in charter schools.

Authors

• Sara Barnard Flory, University of South Florida

• Nathan A. Mccaughtry, Wayne State University