Professional Identity of Physical Education Teachers: What Are the Key Components?

Purpose : Professional identity (PI) has gained significant attention from professional education programs as this concept underscores the professional values and qualities that professionals should internalize alongside their professional skills and knowledge. This study aims to explore the PI components formed by Korean secondary school physical education (PE) teachers. Methods : Twelve PE teachers participated in this qualitative study, selected through maximum variation sampling. Data collection methods included open-ended questionnaires, semistructured individual interviews, and documentation. Results : Eighteen PI components were identified and categorized into nine domains based on three identity dimensions (competence, knowledge, and disposition) and three task areas (teaching, student, and administration) of the professional identity matrix for physical education teachers framework. Discussion/Conclusions : The PI components, reflecting the professionalism instilled in PE teachers, emphasize the importance of embodying the qualities necessary to act, think, and feel like a PE teacher, which help visualize the educational outcomes of PE teacher education programs.