Exploring the Relationship Between Physical Education and Physical Activity

Abstract

The lack of knowledge within the educational profession, related to physical activity and physical education, is jeopardizing the implementation of quality physical education at both elementary and secondary school levels. Despite the effort of the academic community to broaden the awareness of each concept, an alarming number of people within the educational profession still reference each term interchangeably (AAHPERD, 2008; Fishburne & Hickson, 2005). The purpose of the following paper is to re-examine the relationship between physical activity and physical education in an attempt to further progress the understanding of, and identify the appropriate function of, each within a teaching-learning environment. The paper will build on current literature involving the correlation between physical activity and physical education. Ultimately, by further clarifying the role of each, the paper can support every educator in the successful implementation of Daily Physical Activity (DPA) and a quality physical education program for every public school.