Research Paper

Research Paper on: The Benefits of Physical Education in Schools
By: Hazel Hay

Physical education or “gym” may merely seem like a way to keep students busy for a while, especially in their earlier years of schooling, but might it be doing more than just making them sweat? Could physical education be potentially beneficial for students in schools? The following paragraphs provide information that may change your perspective on phys. Ed. Entirely.

A study written by Tremarche gathered information by comparing and contrasting the test results and physical education hours of two fourth grade classes in two different schools. Carrying out the statistical analysis on the data resulted in certain students who had more hours of physical education during the year potentially scored higher on certain subjects in the standardized tests.

Another article by J. Bacaaro proposes that encouraged extracurricular sports and active living involving intramural sports in schools and healthy behaviour can prevent and reduce obesity in students. More physical activity and less consumption of unnecessary food results in a healthier child.

Also, a research paper by J. Trout and K.C Garber involved twelve overweight high school students between the ages of 13 and 18. They were interviewed regarding their experience with physical education. The results showed that overweight teens will take the initiative to exercise but are insecure when doing it among their peers, therefore making it difficult to participate in physical education during school.

An article by R. Bailey discusses the benefits on physical education for children, in schools. It talks about child development skills including: physical, lifestyle, affective, social, and cognitive development and concluded that based on the average child’s interest in physical activity, it can result in improvement in other developmental areas.

Similarly a kindergarten class was observed with specific physical education schedules over a course of six years during a research experiment conducted and written by S.A. Carlson. Researchers collected data from kindergarten, grade one, grade three and grade five. They concluded that girls benefited slightly from the highest level of physical education (70-300min) but boys did not benefit from this at all.

In conclusion, results show that many students find physical education extremely beneficial. Whether it be controlling obesity and healthy living, or raising your standardized test scores, a little school sanctioned physical activity can go a long way with regard to your future.

References:

Tremarche, P. V., Robinson, E. M., & Graham, L. B. (2007). Physical Education and its Effect on Elementary Testing Results. Physical Educator, 64(2), 58-64.

Bocaaarro, J., Kanters, M. A., Casper, J., & Forrester, S. (2008). School Physical Education, Extracurricular Sports, and Lifelong Active Living. Journal Of Teaching In Physical Education, 27(2), 155-166.

Trout, J., & Graber, K. C. (2009). Perceptions of Overweight Students Concerning Their Experiences in Physical Education. Journal Of Teaching In Physical Education, 28(3), 272-292.

Bailey, R. (2006). Physical Education and Sport in Schools: A Review of Benefits and Outcomes. Journal Of School Health, 76(8), 397-401.

Carlson, S. A., Fulton, J. E., & Lee, S. M. (2008). Physical Education and Academic Achievement in Elementary School: Data From the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study. American Journal Of Public Health, 98(4), 721-727.