Administrators’ Perceptions of Physical Education Teacher Evaluation

Authors

  • Jason M. Norris Texas A&M International University
  • Hans van der Mars Arizona State University
  • Pamela Kulinna Arizona State University
  • Audrey Amrein-Beardsley Arizona State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TPE-2017-V74-I4-7468

Keywords:

physical education teacher evaluation, evaluator reliability, administrators perceptions

Abstract

Purpose: Using a mixed methods approach, this study aimed to develop a better understanding of school administrators’ perceptions of teacher evaluation systems, specific to physical education (PE). Method: This study used two sources of data collection: (a) a survey sent to administrators (n = 19) in one urban school district and (b) a formal semistructured interview with 10 administrators from the original surveyed group. Results: Statements from the survey indicated that administrators valued PE, but could not control policies concern-ing amount and quality of PE. Administrators also felt that they were not properly trained in PE teacher evaluation and needed help. Four common themes that emerged from the interview data were (1) I value PE, but I live in reality (administrators value PE, but practice within their reality); (2) good teaching is good teaching; (3) I know my limitations, and I want/need help (relative to teacher evaluation in PE); and (4) where’s the training? (administrators felt there were short-comings in their training specific to teacher evaluation). Conclusion: Evidence from this study suggests more training for administrators in PE teacher evaluation is needed, along with a content-specific evaluation instrument.

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Author Biographies

Jason M. Norris, Texas A&M International University

Assistant Professor in Kinesiology

Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy

Hans van der Mars, Arizona State University

Professor in Physical Education

Pamela Kulinna, Arizona State University

Professor in Physical Education

Audrey Amrein-Beardsley, Arizona State University

Associate Professor in Education

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Published

2017-11-08

Issue

Section

Articles