Japanese Elementary Classroom Teachers’ Experiences of Teaching Gymnastics in Physical Education

Authors

  • Sadaomi Iwaki Hoden Nishi Elementary School
  • Takahiro Sato University of Tsukuba
  • Emi Tsuda West Virginia University
  • James Wyant West Virginia University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TPE-2020-V77-I2-9915

Keywords:

Japan, gymnastics, mat exercise, elementary and physical education

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe Japanese elementary classroom teachers’ experiences of teaching gymnastics in physical education. This study used a descriptive qualitative approach, grounded in the classroom ecological model, using in-depth, semistructured interviews about teaching gymnastics in physical education. Five teachers (4 males, 1 female) from five public elementary schools in Tokyo, Saitama, and Chiba regions of Japan voluntarily participated in this study. Three major interrelated and complex themes emerged from the data analyses: (a) facilitating peer feedback to improve student learning, (b) holding students accountable using self-reflection and self-evaluation, and (c) the struggles of executing ideal lessons. The findings demonstrate the reciprocal and dynamic nature of the teaching–learning environment in Japanese elementary physical education. Teachers must understand their students’ learning interests and motivations and develop student social task systems in gymnastics lessons.

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Author Biographies

Sadaomi Iwaki, Hoden Nishi Elementary School

Elementary School Teacher at Hoden Nishi Elementary School in Funabashi city Chiba Prefecture in Japan

 

Takahiro Sato, University of Tsukuba

Faculty of Health & Sport Science

Professor of Physical Education

Emi Tsuda, West Virginia University

Assistant Professor

College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences 

West Virginia University

James Wyant, West Virginia University

Assistant Professor

College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences 

West Virginia University

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Published

2020-02-20

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Section

Articles