THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN STEAM LEARNING

Abstract

This paper investigates the integration of Physical Education (P.E.) into STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education, set against a backdrop of declining physical activity and increasing health concerns among European youth. The question is how P.E. can enhance STEAM learning and address these health challenges. Utilizing a comparative analysis of P.E. programs across Europe, the study reviews educational policies and curricula to understand the current positioning of P.E. in schools. This involves examining the time allocation and emphasis on P.E. in different educational systems. Current findings reveal a consistent underrepresentation of P.E. in academic settings, with significant discrepancies in the attention and resources allocated to it. This neglect is juxtaposed against the recognized need for holistic education that synergizes physical well-being with academic proficiency. Some examples of interdisciplinary work is given in the paper.