The Relationship Between Secondary School Physical Education and Postsecondary Physical Activity

Authors

  • Meagan Dargavel Wilfrid Laurier University
  • Jennifer Robertson-Wilson Wilfrid Laurier University
  • Pamela J. Bryden Wilfrid Laurier University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TPE-2017-V74-I3-7213

Keywords:

physical education, physical activity, university, college

Abstract

Background: Throughout secondary school in Ontario, PE is offered with the goal of students developing “the skills and knowledge they require to participate in physical activities throughout their lives” (Ontario Ministry of Education 1999a, p. 2). Despite the curricular goals of PE, little research has been conducted on the effects of PE on PA after secondary school completion. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between previous secondary school PE and current PA of postsecondary students. Method: A convenience sample of 112 participants was recruited to complete an online survey about current PA behaviors and past enrollment in secondary PE (amount and type). A subsample of participants agreed to wear a pedometer to monitor their PA behavior objectively. We used t tests to analyze the relationship between current PA and previous enrollment in secondary PE in volume and in regard to specific course enrollment. Results: We found no significant relationship between total number of PE classes taken during secondary school and PA participation as an emerging adult. We found some significant differences in PA participation between those who took specific types of PE courses compared to those who took a single mandatory course. Conclusion: The results suggest that content as opposed to volume of PE courses is related to increased PA after secondary school completion. Future studies should seek to examine the content of specific PE courses and the effect of course content related to transition stages such as emerging adulthood.

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Published

2017-09-20

Issue

Vol. 74 No. 3 (2017)

Section

Articles

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