IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIVE LEARNING METHODS DURING PHYSICAL EDUCATION CLASSES: THE CASE OF SOME SELECTED BALE ZONE HIGH SCHOOLS, OROMIA REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to assess the implementation of active learning methods in some selected Secondary Schools of Bale zone. To achieve this Goba Secondary School and Galama Secondary Schools were selected as study site. The total target populations of secondary school are 1075 grade 10 students, 4 physical education teachers and 2 directors. The sample consisted of 269 students, 4 physical education teachers and directors drawn from two secondary schools. Regarding sampling technique, students were selected from each sample school by using stratified and simple random sampling technique. Physical education teachers and directors were selected on the bases of availability sampling technique. The research methodology employed in the study was a descriptive survey. Questionnaires, interview and observation were the major data gathering instruments used in the study. Percentage and descriptive phrases were used to analyze and interprets the data. The results of the study revealed that the magnitude of implementing active learning methods during physical education was found to be low. Almost all of the teachers employ lecture method mostly and frequently which more tends to teacher-led, the teachers did not take necessary training concerning teaching method and active learning methods, which enable them effective professional teacher and even though they believe in contribution of active learning for effective education, they lack awareness about those methods and how to implement in classroom. Beside this, the other factors identified were instructional materials and facilities were inadequate, low attitudes of students towards physical education, passiveness of students, lack of recently revised/updated physical education students’ text books and large class size. Based on the findings, conclusions were made and recommendations forwarded to alleviate the existing problems. Accordingly, physical education teachers should encourage becoming more knowledgeable and skillful in implementing active learning approach. This can be done through workshop, seminar, and inter-staff discussion and by offering higher diploma program in the form of in-service training that facilitates sharing of idea to improve understanding of implementation of active learning. Schools and community together should strive to fulfill instructional materials and facilities, creating awareness on schools and students about physical education.