Student perception of PE teachers and its effect on their participation in PE classes and sports: a new perspective on teacher competencies

Background and Study Aim: A low level of physical activity (PA) is associated with higher mortality and numerous chronic diseases. It also negatively affects the quality of life. Generally, the amount of time children spend in sedentary behaviors increases with age. Therefore, the role of physical education (PE) teachers is very important. PE teachers are of key importance for students' experience of PE and the promotion of participation in sports and physical activity throughout their entire life. The aim the study was to analyze students' perception of PE teachers and its determinantsMaterial & Methods: The present study is based on a questionnaire completed by 1797 students (979 females and 818 males). The survey was addressed to students attending various secondary schools in one of the districts in eastern Poland. The tool comprised 13 factors assessed on a 5-point scale, pertaining to personal and professional qualities of a teacher. The study also analyzed students' attitudes towards PE and extracurricular sports activities.Results: The study showed that communication skills (M=4.53, SD=0.80) and the ability to cooperate (M=4.53, SD=0.78) had the greatest impact on students' perception of PE teachers. The least important factor was physical appearance (M=3.10, SD=1.35). This variable was also the most heterogeneous one. The analysis demonstrated that such variables as gender and attitude to school-based and extracurricular PA differentiate students as regards their perception of teacher competencies. Male students less frequently reported a negative attitude to extracurricular sports activities (p