Stakeholders' Perceptions of Ability Grouping in an Elementary School Physical Education Unit

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Eleven
  In Roundtable Session: Research on Physical Education Students and Policy (Table 18)

Abstract

This study examined the perceptions of stakeholders to a 20-lesson unit of tchoukball where students participated with and against others of similar skill levels. One hundred fifty-four students (three classes) became members of teams in either ‘Snakes’, ‘Dragons’, or ‘Tigers’ leagues that represented higher, middle and lower-level skills. All instruction occurred concurrently, involving skill learning, practicing game-like tasks, or in within-league competitive skill challenges and games. Interviews with the three teachers generated five themes in which the commonality was increased engagement and the ability to deliver a more developmentally appropriate experience to students. Students overwhelmingly enjoyed the experience, describing the climate as more helpful and forgiving while challenging them to improve. The pedagogies of inclusion enacted in this unit are discussed.

Authors

• Peter A. Hastie, Auburn University
  Presenting Author

• Sheri J. Brock, Auburn University
  Presenting Author

• Alice M. Buchanan, Auburn University
  Non-Presenting Author