BEING A PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER IN TURKEY: PRIVILEGES AND CHALLENGES

Physical education teachers are an essential part of the education system as they help develop students’ psychomotor skills, instill a sports culture, encourage them to become individuals who engage in lifelong physical activity, and foster responsible individuals with good mental and social well-being. Physical education teachers also play a critical role in students’ physical, social, mental, and emotional development, and the active, enjoyable, and natural climate of their classes allows them to build stronger connections with students compared to teachers of other classes. However, in education settings, each country and culture has its own educational goals, learning opportunities, achievements and shortcomings. Similarly, within the Turkish National Education System, being a physical education teacher involves not only convenience and enjoyable aspects but also various challenges and difficulties. Especially, sports activities and school team practices enhance teachers’ communication with students, while positive relationships with the local community, especially in rural areas, strengthen the teachers’ respect and standing in society. Nevertheless, issues such as insufficient weekly class hours, lack of sports facilities and equipment, educational policies, inadequate administrative support, professional role conflicts (e.g., the dual role of coach and teacher), seeing as a disciplinary authority and declining student interest due to high school and university entrance exams represent the negative aspects of the profession. Also, physical education classes are still not given sufficient value, and there is even partial resistance to recognizing their significance. Although physical education teaching in Turkey offers significant advantages both individually and socially, addressing structural, political, and social problems is essential to improving the effectiveness of this profession. In conclusion, in a country like Turkey, which represents a blend of Eastern and Western cultures, this article examining the advantages and challenges of being a physical education teacher will serve as a valuable resource for future comparative cultural studies.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0900/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>