The Challenges and Realities of E-Learning during COVID-19: The Case of University Sport and Physical Education

Louis Moustakas and Denise Robrade
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Louis Moustakas: Institute of European Sport Development and Leisure Studies, German Sport University, 50933 Cologne, Germany
Denise Robrade: Institute of European Sport Development and Leisure Studies, German Sport University, 50933 Cologne, Germany

Challenges, 2022, vol. 13, issue 1, 1-12

Abstract: E-learning quickly became a crucial tool for universities and other higher education institutions during the global COVID-19 pandemic. The field of sport and physical education (PE) was no exception. However, though there is considerable growth in digital technologies in sport or physical education, we have very little evidence about the use and outcomes of these technologies. Thus, this study aims to document how e-learning technologies and pedagogical approaches were employed in the field of sport, the challenges and successes associated with these approaches, and potential avenues for improvement. To do so, a total of 27 responses were collected with two online qualitative surveys, one respectively for students ( n = 15) and one for teachers ( n = 12). Structured follow-up interviews with four students and one additional teacher were conducted to verify and deepen the responses. The findings show that interaction and variety were critical components of successful online learning. However, teachers reported difficulties motivating students, especially if no visual connection was present. Ultimately, even with innovation, variety, and interaction, sport and physical education’s practical and social nature does not fully translate to the online setting. Thus, we conclude by proposing potential avenues for practice and research to respond to the challenges documented here.

Keywords: e-learning; online learning; distance learning; teaching; sport; physical education; qualitative research; challenges; COVID-19; coronavirus (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A00 C00 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (5)

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