The Impact of COVID-19 on PETE: Beginning Physical Education Teachers’ Perception and Its Implications for Continuing Professional Development

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 11:45 am - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Evolving Professional Roles and Identities in PE/PETE

Abstract

This study explored how the COVID-19 pandemic affected beginning physical education teachers’ learning and practicum experiences in PETE, aiming to inform more tailored professional development. Using a qualitative design, participants were recruited from six public universities across diverse U.S. regions. Three key themes emerged: (a) the pandemic negatively impacted learning, (b) it reduced teaching readiness and confidence, (c) it enhanced participants’ adaptability with technology. The study’s retrospective design and national scope offers valuable insights into current challenges faced by beginning teachers and informs strategies for their ongoing professional development.

Authors

• Baofu Wang, SUNY - College at Cortland

• Xiaoping Fan, SUNY - College at Cortland

• Xiaolu Liu, Georgia State University

• Tanjian Liang, Central Washington University

• Jingwen Liu, California State University - Fullerton

• Yilin Li, California State University - Bakersfield