An Integration of Mobile Applications into Physical Education Programs

Even though technology in physical education has the potential to open up a variety of teaching and learning avenues by enhancing active experiences to help students develop the skills, attitudes, knowledge and behaviors needed for a lifetime of physical activity, some teachers may have a hard time finding ways to integrate technology into their curriculum. Portable technologies, specifically mobile applications (apps), are now accessible anywhere, anytime, which allows users to perform specific tasks for entertainment, productivity or educational purposes. This article gives an overview of technology use in physical education and specifically identifies physical education and physical activity applications that teachers might find useful. An example of how mobile applications might work directly with a sport education model in physical education is also provided to assist the readers with their own implementation plan. Finally, ideas for how to integrate mobile apps into physical education program are discussed.