Background/Purpose: It has been suggested that significant changes are needed to current physical education (PE) programs to ensure that PE programs are effective in combating childhood obesity. Data procured at the programmatic level allow PE professionals to monitor program development. This study aimed to examine PE program changes from 2006 to 2010.
Method: Data reported in the Shape of the Nation published by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education in 2006 and 2010 were analyzed. The following three types of variables were included in the reports: PE requirements for K-12 students, online PE, and teacher qualification requirements.
Analysis/Results: Means and standard deviations for numeric variables were computed. For the categorical variables percentages were calculated. Wilcoxon test was used to analyze the data. Results indicated a significant change in the mandated PE requirements for elementary school (Z = -2.31, p =. 021), middle school (Z = -2.32, p =. 020), and high school (Z = -3.61, p =. 001). Moreover, a significant increase of offering online PE (Z = -3.16, p =. 002) was found. Unfortunately, there was a significant decrease in funding for professional development (Z = -3.00, p =.003) and the requirement for the position of PE coordinator (Z = -5.01, p = .0001).
Conclusions: Although some positive programmatic changes have occurred, there is still work to be done (i.e., funding) if PE is to be a factor in the fight against childhood obesity. In addition, more PE might be taught online in the future.
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