The Necessity of Physical Education in Today's Schools.

Overview & Synopsis

The literature in this annotated bibliography was selected to identify and interpret the holistic value of physical education within the general school curriculum and to illustrate the necessity of physical education as a major course of study. The first group of studies cited in the bibliography focuses on the historical development of physical education and sports from primitive civilizations, through the influence of Greece and Europe, and developments in early American society. In the second group, the value of physical education is emphasized, with writings on its contributions to general education and on the overall importance of the goals, aims, and objectives of physical education. In the third group of studies, scientific interpretations of physical education are considered from physiological, psychological, and sociological points of view. The physical education curriculum and the future of physical education in the schools and society are discussed in the final group of writings. Viewpoints of the authors are summarized with some conclusions and recommendations. A brief bibliography of additional literature not annotated is included. (JD)