Creating a Culture of Meaningful Physical Education: A Secondary School Community of Practice

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to examine the experiences of secondary physical education teachers participating in a community of practice (CoP) focused on implementing a Meaningful PE approach in rural Alberta. We used case study methodology of the CoP to examine the experiences of the teachers as they explored implementing the features of a Meaningful PE approach. Qualitative data were gathered (e.g. interviews, field notes) and analyzed to gain a deeper understanding of participants’ experiences. Data analysis produced three themes: ‘context matters’; ‘oh, no, this is cool. Mr. Teacher knows what he's doing’; and ‘The best PD is committed people working together’. These illustrate the value of the CoP for teachers implementing meaningful pedagogical approaches as well as the need for contextual flexibility. The results are impactful for professional development and implementation of quality PE in secondary schools.