Post-primary School Students’ Attitudes Toward Physical Education and Physical Activity Preferences: Philippines’ K-12 Program

This study examined the attitudes and physical activity preferences of Filipino post-primary students towards their K-12 physical education curriculum. It also explored whether differences existed based on gender and grade level. Grade 7–10 (n = 483) students responded to statements related to student attitudes to and interest in physical education. Physical activity preferences were also examined. Results showed that Filipino post-primary school students possessed positive attitudes toward physical education. Significant differences between gender were found in terms of the type of sport enjoyed, namely preferences for swimming, gymnastics, and basketball. Significant differences were also found among grade levels regarding attitudes towards co-educational classes and enjoyment of fitness testing, as well as preferences for badminton, basketball, and dance lessons. The present study suggests that the K-12 Physical Education curriculum offers class experiences that students find favorable and enjoyable. Teachers and sport administrators who want their students to enjoy and feel positive about physical education should take into consideration their students’ sex and grade level during curriculum development and/or adjustment. This research also highlights that the physical activity preferences of students are becoming more diversified but that, at the same time, they tend to remain traditional.