TEACHER INVOLVEMENT IN ACTIVE PLAY AND ITS INFLUENCE ON CHILDREN’S PHYSICAL LITERACY: IMPLICATIONS FOR SPORTS SCIENCES AND EDUCATION – A CASE STUDY IN GUJRANWALA DISTRICT OF PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background:

Physical literacy, encompassing physical competence, motivation, confidence, and knowledge of physical activity, is essential for children’s lifelong engagement in physical activity. Teacher involvement in active play has been identified as a key factor influencing the development of physical literacy, yet evidence from primary schools in Pakistan remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to examine the effect of teacher involvement in active play on the physical literacy of children aged 5–11 years in the Gujranwala district of Punjab, Pakistan.

Methods:

A total of 200 primary school children were selected using stratified random sampling and divided into two groups: Group A1 (high teacher involvement) and Group A2 (low teacher involvement). Teacher involvement was assessed through structured observations of guidance, feedback, and active participation during play sessions. Physical literacy outcomes—including physical competence, motivation, confidence, and knowledge—were measured using standardized motor skill tests and age-appropriate questionnaires. Data were analyzed using independent samples t-tests, with significance set at p< 0.05.

Results:

Children in the high teacher involvement group (A1) demonstrated significantly higher physical literacy scores compared to those in the low involvement group (A2) (p < 0.05). Differences were particularly notable in physical competence and confidence, while motivation and knowledge showed moderate improvements. Conclusion: The findings indicate that higher teacher involvement in active play is associated with improved physical literacy among children aged 5–11 years. These results underscore the importance of active teacher participation in play-based physical activities and support the integration of teacher-led active play strategies within primary school physical education programs.