Physical education teachers often coach school athletic teams.
Physical education coaches or teachers teach school-age children, including high school students, on the fundamentals of physical exercise and proper health and nutrition. They also teach students the basic rules and regulations of various sports and introduce students to non-traditional games that can be used for physical activity and exercise. Some physical education teachers also serve as coaches for school athletic teams. A well-rounded education is needed to provide instruction in all of these areas.
General Education
In most states, a bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement to work as a physical education teacher. The type of degree depends on the requirements of the state board of education. In some states an education degree is required, while in other states like Texas, the aspiring coach would need a degree in a field related to physical education like kinesiology or exercise science and then complete an approved teacher education program and certification. All bachelor's degree programs require general education courses. These are usually taken during the first two years of undergraduate studies and provide students with a well-rounded education. Students typically take courses in English, psychology, speech and communication, math, history and science en route to a bachelor's degree.
Physical Education Courses
Many physical education degree programs combine coursework in physical education with courses in professional teacher development and coaching. Physical education courses provide potential coaches with the foundation they need for instruction in the basic aspects of health and wellness. Courses of study can include areas like exercise physiology, kinesiology, first-aid and CPR training, health education, the use of rhythmic and non-rhythmic activities in physical education, preventing and caring for athletic injuries and anatomy and physiology.
Coaching Courses
Aspiring physical education teachers and coaches usually need to complete specialized coursework on the basic aspects of coaching particular sports. The areas of coaching chosen by the student are typically a reflection of his own coaching interests, but it also behooves the aspiring coach to take coursework in coaching as many sports as possible. Common sports often include football, basketball, baseball, softball and soccer. Other sports to consider include wrestling, tennis, track and field and volleyball.
Education Courses
Physical education majors often have to complete professional development or teaching courses also. These courses introduce them to the basics of teaching theory and methods. Students are also generally required to complete a teaching practicum and some kind of student-teaching experience also. Areas of study include those in instructional technology, educational psychology, assessment and valuation in education, multicultural awareness in the classroom and working with students who have exceptional abilities.
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