Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Notes

Overview

• Host: Gary Zaharatos
• Focus on promoting inclusivity and effective practices in physical education (PE)
• Recent district-wide content day for Denver Public Schools PE teachers
• Introduction to 'Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher' book
  • Professional development book study
  • Available as an audiobook soon

Community Engagement

• 1,000+ members in Facebook group
  • Unique discussions and shared expertise
• Invitation to join the Facebook group for discussions

Chapter 1: Promoting Inclusivity and Engagement

Establishing a Safe and Welcoming Environment

• Importance of equitable access for all students
• Focus on inclusivity, personal growth, and cognitive and physical engagement
• Essential strategies:
  • Eliminating exclusionary practices
  • Emphasizing small-sided games and low student-to-equipment ratios
  • Incorporating student voice
  • Transitioning from outdated to modern practices

Equity vs. Equality

• Equality: Uniform treatment of students, often neglects individual needs
• Equity: Tailored support and resources recognizing unique student needs

Eliminating Exclusionary Practices

• Avoid elimination games that induce failure and humiliation
• Ensure full participation with creative modifications
• Example: Modify "Everybody's It Tag" to keep students active

Small-sided Games and Low Student-to-Equipment Ratio

• Small group sizes increase participation and enjoyment
• More opportunities for skill development
• Limit team sizes to enhance engagement

Incorporating Student Voice

• Allow students to contribute to lessons and activities
• Example: Structured exploratory time with student contribution
• Promote ownership and engagement in the learning process

Transitioning to Contemporary Practices

Outdated Practices and Contemporary Solutions

• Team Captains Picking Teams:
  • Creates exclusion; use random grouping or allow students to pair themselves
• Emphasizing Competition:
  • Over-focus on winning/losing; emphasize cooperation and ethical skills
• Exercise as Punishment:
  • Avoid negative associations; use positive reinforcement
• Traditional Team Sports Focus:
  • Include diverse activity options beyond traditional sports
• Gender-based Activities:
  • Avoid stereotypes; encourage all students to try various activities
• Grading on Participation/Dressing Out:
  • Focus on progress towards standards, not attire
• Non-Adapted Activities for Diverse Needs:
  • Collaborate for inclusive adaptations
• Public Ranking of Students:
  • Focus on personal improvement and private reflection
• Strict Uniform Requirements:
  • Allow flexibility in athletic attire
• Students as Targets:
  • Avoid games like dodgeball; use non-human targets

Chapter Summary

• Establish inclusive and equitable environments
• Modify games to ensure continuous engagement
• Use small-sided games and student voice for active participation
• Prioritize contemporary, inclusive practices

Reflective Questions

1. How can you ensure equitable access and participation in your PE classes?
2. Which activities might exclude some students, and how can they be modified?
3. How can you integrate student-centered activities?
4. Which outdated practices can you reevaluate in your teaching?