The Challenges and Strategies for School Physical Education Curriculum and Instruction Under Low Fertility Rates in Taiwan

Authors : Andy Lin

Pages : 405-422

Doi:10.38021/asbid.1688547

View : 51 | Download : 51

Publication Date : 2025-06-28

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study investigated the impacts of Taiwan’s declining student population, driven by low fertility rates, on school physical education curricula and instruction, with particular attention to rural areas. Through 11 focus group interviews involving 112 stakeholders—including principals, directors, coaches, teachers, and parents—from various regions across Taiwan, the research gathered insights into the challenges and adaptive strategies shaped by this demographic shift. Key issues identified included reduced opportunities for peer interaction, difficulties in forming teams for competitions, and widening disparities between urban and rural schools. In response, schools employed various strategies such as merging grades for activities, modifying competition formats, and emphasizing individual sports to sustain student participation and engagement. Despite the constraints imposed by smaller class sizes, the findings revealed that these challenges also prompted schools to develop more personalized and collaborative learning environments. The adaptive measures not only mitigated the negative effects of declining enrollments but also encouraged innovation in physical education practices tailored to diverse student needs and developmental levels.
Keywords : Kırsal eğitim, Akran etkileşimi, Kentsel-kırsal eşitsizlikler, Tematik analiz, Odak grup görüşmesi

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