Evaluation of an online physical education course using the context, input, process, and product model

BACKGROUND: The pandemic has caused an instantaneous shift from traditional to purely online learning mode. There was a need to evaluate online PE1 (Foundations of Physical Fitness or FPF), mainly for improvement and accountability. METHODS: This study used Stufflebeam’s context, input, process, and product model in evaluating online PE1 FPF’s relevance, responsiveness, effectiveness, efficiency, applicability, and overall impact. Data sources include documents, student survey results, interviews with administrators, and several separate focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, content, and thematic analyses. RESULTS: Context evaluation proved online PE1 (FPF) remained relevant and aligned with keeping students physically active during the pandemic. Input evaluation determined that resources for online PE1 (FPF) for its successful implementation were somewhat adequate. Process evaluation identified facilitating and inhibiting factors. Facilitating factors include the conduct of synchronous sessions for immediate instruction and feedback, providing clear communication, and the importance of flexibility and resourcefulness. The inhibiting factors that should be addressed include faculty capacities in the integration of technology in the physical education courses, and the high number of students, which hampers more personalized approaches. Product evaluation ascertained the value and worth of online PE1 (FPF). Online PE1 (FPF) contributed to students’ overall health and wellness and remained a crucial course offering amidst uncertain times. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Online PE1 (FPF) conducted during the pandemic proved beneficial to the students. Improvements can be made toward seamless student data integration and enhancing the teaching and learning processes through faculty capacity in the use of technology, and reducing the number of students for a more individualized approach.