The Impact of Health and Physical Education on Children’s Cognitive Development (A Case Study of Nigerian Children)
- Post by: deqe
- August 10, 2023
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ABSTRACT
This study explores the impact of health and physical education on the cognitive development of Nigerian children, recognizing the unique context of Nigerian society and its potential implications for shaping a brighter future for the nation. The study was underpinned by self-perception theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design. Data were obtained through a questionnaire administered to teachers and parents to understand how Physical Education is taught, identify barriers to teaching this subject, explore parents’ knowledge and expectations of the Physical Education program, and assess its contribution to a child’s physical, social, and cognitive development. The research findings indicate that Physical Education is valued by parents, teachers, and children, but there is a disconnect between parents’ expectations, teachers’ intentions, and children’s preferences regarding the content of Physical Education classes. Teachers identified barriers to comprehensive Physical Education, such as a congested curriculum, lack of resources, space constraints, lack of confidence, and conflicting school priorities. Many parents viewed Physical Education as essential but had limited understanding of its impact on their child’s development or the grading criteria for the subject. Children expressed a desire for more fun and challenging activities in Physical Education classes, catering to various skill and fitness levels. It was recommended that Schools and educational authorities should prioritize ongoing professional development for Physical Education teachers.
Keywords: Children’s Cognitive Development; Health and Physical Education; Nigerian Children
Authored by
Okolieuwa, Christopher Chikwado1; Prof. Joshua Umeifekwem2; & Prof. Samson Godwin Eze3
1Department of Occupational Health and Safety Management, South American University
2Department of Kinetics and Physical Education, University of Nigeria, UNN Nsukka
3Department of Physical and Health Education, Enugu State University of Science and Technology
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.8232247 | FULL PDF