PERCEIVED COMPETENCE AND ENJOYMENT IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION AMONG 6TH-GRADE STUDENTS – A CONTEXT-SPECIFIC APPROACH

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate 6th-grade students` perceived competence (PC) and enjoyment in physical education (PE) across three different contexts: basketball, dance and outdoor activities. We used the Intrinsic Motivation Index (IMI) to measure PC, alongside the modified Satisfaction in Sport Scale, following teaching sessions with basketball, dance and outdoor activities as contexts for 6th-graders (N=37). Girls reported significantly higher PC in dance compared to boys, while no significant differences were found in basketball and outdoor activities. Girls showed significantly higher PC scores in outdoor activities compared to basketball, whereas boys scored significantly lower in PC for dance compared to basketball and outdoor activities. PC in PE accounted for 25% of enjoyment among 6th-grade students. The results provide a more nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding PC and enjoyment in PE. Preparing and implementing each teaching session with carefully selected content, teaching methods and organizational forms may contribute to a high level of mastery and enjoyment, which in turn may enhance positive motivational processes and foster lifelong interest in physical activity among students. Article visualizations: