What Makes a Difference Between Teachers?: Exploring South Korea’s Early Childhood Physical Education Teachers’ Competency

Abstract

Physical activity in early childhood plays a crucial role in the holistic development of young children. However, challenges persist in the effective implementation of early childhood physical education (ECPE) due to the lack of specialized expertise among early childhood teachers. This study aimed to identify the essential components of the teaching competency required for ECPE through a Delphi survey approach. A panel of experts categorized teaching competency into four core areas: physical activity education, understanding learners, professional development, and environmental management. This study highlights the importance of reflective professionalism, safety management, and creating a positive learning environment. The findings offer valuable guidance for enhancing teacher education and professional development programs, ultimately empowering early childhood teachers to provide meaningful and effective physical activity education to young children. Further research is needed to explore how these competencies can be effectively integrated into ECPE settings.