A Newly Revised Master's Degree in Physical Education and Physical Activity Leadership at the University of Northern Colorado

Abstract

In response to calls on physical education teacher education (PETE) programs to better prepare teachers for a broadened role in school-based physical activity promotion, the University of Northern Colorado has recently established a Master of Arts in teaching physical education and physical activity leadership (MAT PE-PAL) degree. The five-semester program is delivered with fall and spring classes offered completely online, and summer classes that consist of both online and on-campus learning experiences so that current school professionals can enroll. The curriculum includes traditional master's level courses in physical education, as well as newly designed courses intended to foster leadership skills in comprehensive school physical activity programming. There are four main components that permeate the curriculum: (1) a strong pedagogical foundation, (2) applied research and evaluation techniques, (3) a broad understanding of the school health environment, and (4) leadership skills. Courses are intentionally sequenced so that students are guided through a systematic process of change while they are enrolled in the program. The culminating experience is a comprehensive portfolio that documents students' efforts and achievements in school-wide physical activity promotion.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Brian Dauenhauer

Brian Dauenhauer ([email protected]), Jennifer Krause, and Scott Douglas are assistant professors, and Megan Babkes Stellino is a professor, in the School of Sport and Exercise Science; and Mark Smith is a professor and associate dean of the College of Natural and Health Sciences, at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, CO.