University women’s experiences and conceptions about physical education in Spain

Abstract

People’s experiences determine their attitudes and behaviors towards a certain object. Therefore, experiences during schooling can determine pupils’ interest and taste to carry out certain activities in their free time, which can influence not only childhood and adolescence, but also adulthood. Thus, the experiences in physical education (PE) during the scholarship could have a great impact on the present and future physical activity habits of the population. The aim of this research is to analyze future female teachers’ experiences in Primary and Secondary physical education and their conceptions on the purpose and the way physical education should be developed. Sixty-three young women aged between 21-25 years old from a Primary Education teacher education course in Spain participated in the study. Information was gathered using reflective journalling. Results show that joyful, game-centered activities, and good memories prevail during Primary education, while Secondary physical education is remembered as a technical and fitness-related stage. Participants think that physical education should contribute to an integral development, transfer positive values and promote physical activity practice outside of school.