The Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) program is an active participant in the education mission of Manchester University and the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences by developing graduates of ability and conviction. Specifically, the mission of PETE is to offer quality educational programming and services that emphasize practical application of health and physical education content knowledge and technical expertise to serve students of diverse backgrounds and ability. This will be accomplished by providing an environment that promotes health, an active lifestyle, and lifelong learning in our students, as well as self-reflection, personal and social responsibility, professionalism, and an appreciation for community service.
PETE Learning Objectives
Each physical education teacher candidate should be able to:
- Construct and deliver appropriate curriculum for P-12 students.
- Assess students' learning and development with a variety of measures to aid in appropriate and effective instructional planning.
- Establish professional and reciprocal relationships with others invested in P-12 students' learning.
- Create positive and caring environments for student development and learning.
Career Opportunities
Manchester University enjoys a strong reputation for preparing physical education teachers of ability and conviction and boasts an excellent placement record for their graduates. Certification as a teacher provides the opportunity for employment in virtually every community in the state, nation, as well as overseas. All-grade (K-12) certification provides the opportunity to teach students physical education in elementary schools, as well as in junior high and high schools. Most positions also provide the chance for the teacher to coach student-athletes in a sport. For those who enjoy working with enthusiastic children and youth in a subject they love, this is a great career.
Students who successfully complete the Physical Education Teacher Education major acquire the knowledge, skill, and disposition necessary for teaching and coaching in public and private schools, as well as community settings. Graduates may chose to teach or seek employment with community agencies such as YMCAs, fitness centers, camps, and other sport-related organizations.
Making a difference in the life of a child can make a difference in the life of the world. Physical education graduates are prepared to face the challenges and joys of educating future generations. Numerous career opportunities are available locally, throughout Indiana, and different parts of the country for highly motivated teachers.
A bachelor's degree in physical education not only prepares you for K-12 classrooms, but many of the skills learned in the program, such as communication, planning, organization, and research, can be applied to alternative career paths. Additional career opportunities open up for students who pursue graduate studies in education.
Special Features
Faculty in the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences at University are strongly committed to making a difference in the lives of America's youth! Our dynamic teacher education program provides continual practical experiences in our on campus teaching laboratory, personal attention from professors in small classroom settings, and training on cutting edge research. In addition, immediate access to students in area schools for teaching and research opportunities are available.
The Physical Education Teacher Education major offers intensive academic coursework and hands-on teaching experiences. Special features of the program include:
- Content Knowledge. You will learn physical education content and disciplinary concepts related to the development of a physically educated person.
- Growth and Development. As a teacher, you will understand how individuals learn and develop and can provide opportunities that support their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.
- Diverse Students. You will understand how individuals differ in their approaches to learning and create appropriate instruction adapted to these differences.
- Management and Motivation. Physical education teachers use an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a safe learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.
- Communication. You will learn to use knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques to enhance learning and engagement in physical activity settings.
- Planning and Instruction. Teachers plan and implement a variety of developmentally appropriate instructional strategies to develop physically educated individuals, based on state and national standards.
- Student Assessment. You will understand and use assessment to foster physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of students in physical activity.
- Reflection. Physical education teachers are reflective practitioners who evaluate the effects of their actions on others (e.g., students, parents/guardians, fellow professionals) and seek opportunities to grow professionally.
- Technology. You will use information technology to enhance learning and to enhance personal and professional productivity.
- Collaboration. As a teacher, you will foster relationships with colleagues, parents/guardians, and community agencies to support students' growth and well-being.