Numerical – Descriptive – Categorical:Teachers’ Experiences and Opinions on Physical Education Assessment in Primary School

Physical education assessment is one of the most challenging forms of assessment in school, as it aims to objectively assess the pupils’ knowledge while promoting a positive attitude towards sport and lifelong physical activity to maintain health. Through an empirical qualitative study using a focus group approach, we aimed to gain insight into the experiences and opinions of teachers about assessment in physical education (PE). Five class teachers and five PE teachers, each with at least 15 years’ experience teaching the 3rd to 9th grades in primary school, participated in two focus groups. The results of the qualitative content analysis revealed five key themes: the impact of numerical assessment on self-image, pupils’ attitude towards the subject and interest in sport, the factors influencing pupils’ intrinsic motivation to engage in sport, the methodology of assessment, and the advantages and disadvantages of numerical assessment.