The Future of Physical Education and Sports Courses in Turkey in the 21st Century
Chapter from the book:
Sağın,
A.
E.
&
Uğraş,
S.
(eds.)
2025.
The Pedagogical Transformation of Physical Education and Sports: From the Historical Process to the Turkey Century Education Model.
Synopsis
In this chapter, the changes experienced in physical education and sports courses in Turkey in the 21st century are examined in terms of physical literacy, inclusivity, digitalization, and global trends. Physical literacy helps students develop lifelong physical activity habits from childhood to adulthood by fostering the simultaneous development of knowledge, motivation, self-confidence, and skill. This concept includes not only physical skills but also cultivating positive attitudes and awareness toward physical activity. The inclusive physical education approach aims to provide an equal, safe, and supportive learning environment for all students by considering special needs, gender differences, and cultural diversity. For this process to be successful, teachers’ attitudes, school administration, stakeholder collaboration, and sufficient resources are essential. In the digital age, online physical education practices, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) based interactive learning environments, and artificial intelligence supported assessment tools make courses more personalized and student-centered. However, technological costs, hardware requirements, and digital inequalities challenge the sustainability of these innovations. Global issues such as increasing physical inactivity, obesity, and digital addiction necessitate a re-evaluation of physical education through a health-oriented approach. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and online platforms increase the alignment of the course with 21st-century skills. In conclusion, the future of physical education and sports courses in Turkey should be reshaped with an inclusive, technology-supported, health-oriented, and lifelong sports based approach.
