Teaching Physical Education Teacher Education Online: Reconciling with "Emergency Remote Delivery"

Overview & Synopsis

Purpose: Physical education teacher education is one of the most difficult subjects to transition online due to its inherent embodiedness in nature. Anticipating the challenges of transitioning courses during COVID-19, we explored our experiences teaching physical education teacher education online during emergency remote delivery. Method: Using a collaborative self-study of teacher education practice methodology, we interrogated our assumptions, actions, and lived experiences of teaching physical education teacher education online. Journal reflections and responses, recorded meetings, and documents/artifacts were analyzed using inductive reflexive thematic analysis and Dewey's theory of experience. Results: Our reflections on tensions and new learnings generated four themes: (a) lifting us up and bringing us down, (b) (no more) show and tell, (c) creating bonds through relationships and community, and (d) finding joy without movement. Conclusion: Although this adventure of emergency remote teaching did cause stress and uncertainty, it also pushed us to become innovators and provided professional development.