School Physical Education Curriculum of Iran from Experts' Perspective: "What It Is and Should Be

This study aimed to evaluate the current physical education curriculum of elementary schools (first and second grades) in Iran. This is an applied study conducted using grounded theory and the research method is qualitative. The research population consisted of all professors in Iran in the field of physical education, of whom, 15 people were selected as the statistical sample using purposive sampling method. Semi-structured interviews were used as the research tool. The interview was conducted person to person and over a period of 40 to 60 minutes. Content validity was used to determine the validity of the interview. Collected data were classified and then, analyzed through the categorization method. This form contains general questions about the elements, physical education curriculum in Iran. Supervisors' constructive comments and few curriculum and physical education experts were also used and reliability of the interview was confirmed by three experts who reviewed a summary of the content and determined categories using the qualitative research methods. The results showed that the current physical education curriculum in schools is not favorable in terms of the objectives, content, and curriculum, teaching-learning strategies, and evaluation methods of knowledge, skills and attitudes and does not entirely satisfy the expectations of the physical education professionals. Experts suggested the use of studies and experiences of leading countries and the local, national, and regional capacities based on the international perspective on the current situation of physical education curriculum, needs assessment, flexibility and providing necessary infrastructure in schools

Physical Education Curriculum, Objectives, Content, Learning Strategies, Evaluation