The impact of training and professional development on physical education teacher self-efficacy

Abstract

Teacher self-efficacy is a key driver of teaching quality and professional growth. Continuous professional development, particularly for physical education (PE) teachers, is critical for enhancing their selfefficacy, enabling them to adapt to modern educational challenges and improve teaching standards. This study investigated the relationship between training, professional development, and self-efficacy among PE teachers. Findings revealed a positive correlation between training, particularly in digital skills development postpandemic, and PE teacher self-efficacy across diverse aspects of their teaching. Specifically, teachers who participated in training programs reported an 88.9% increase in their self-efficacy, while participation in ICTrelated seminars boosted their teaching strategies by 83.3%. Additionally, self-efficacy has been found to have a positive correlation with both classroom management and student engagement. This relationship underscores the critical importance of continuous professional development as a means to enhance teaching practices. When teachers possess a strong sense of self-efficacy, they are more likely to implement effective classroom management strategies and foster an engaging learning environment for their students. The research highlights that systematic peer support and constructive feedback from experienced educators play a pivotal role in empowering teachers. Such collaborative efforts not only facilitate the sharing of innovative classroom practices but also create a culture of continuous improvement among educators. Moreover, the development and implementation of targeted training programs that specifically focus on enhancing the digital skills of physical education (PE) teachers are deemed essential. As the educational landscape increasingly incorporates technology, equipping teachers with the necessary digital competencies is crucial for improving their effectiveness in managing classrooms and actively engaging students in the learning process. These training programs should be designed to address the unique challenges faced by PE teachers, ensuring that they are wellprepared to integrate technology into their teaching methodologies.