A Study of Compulsory Physical Education Programs in Alberta: The Programs, Their Costs and the Incidence of Injuries Sustained by Students.

Overview & Synopsis

This summary of three research reports presents general findings and recommendations on the subject of physical education programs in the province of Alberta, Canada--specifically on (1) the nature of the compulsory program of physical education and its acceptance by students and parents; (2) the imposed costs to students for their participation in the physical education program; and (3) the nature and incidence of injuries incurred by participants during the physical education class period, as well as during free play and in the intramural and extramural athletic programs operations. Part One of the summary report investigates: (1) the required nature of physical education; (2) the need for daily physical education; (3) the length of the physical education class; (4) class objectives; (5) evaluation of student physical education achievement; (6) extent of choice of activities; (7) student attitudes toward physical education; (8) teacher qualifications; and (9) facilities. Part Two presents major findings regarding: (1) school practices and policies in imposing additional student costs for physical education programs; (2) inhibiting effects of these costs on student participation; (3) regional, grade level, and program content factors upon varying cost levels; and (4) program finance and expenditure. Part Three presents a summary of analyses of physical education injuries by grade groups (K-6, 7-12), and discusses strategies for reducing injury incidence through preventive measures or educational procedures. (MB)