Driven by grit, inspired by curiosity: Enhancing students’ academic engagement in Physical Education in the higher education system

This study examined the roles of grit and curiosity in predicting academic engagement among physical education students at a selected state university. Using quantitative methods with a sample of undergraduates enrolled in Physical Activity Toward Health and Fitness courses, it assessed the influence of these psychological traits on academic engagement. The results showed that grit significantly predicted academic engagement, highlighting its importance in fostering perseverance and sustained effort. However, curiosity alone did not significantly influence engagement, though combined with grit, it contributed to a more profound interest in learning. The study acknowledged limitations such as focusing on a single university and potential bias from self-report measures. Despite these limitations, the research added valuable insights specific to this studied context, indicating that educational strategies should aim to develop both grit and curiosity to enhance student engagement and performance in physical education and other academic areas.