The Effectiveness of Analogy Learning as a Learning Practice Condition in Primary Physical Education

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62695/ZSNV3229

Keywords:

Analogy Learning, Physical Education, Primary Sector, Primary Students, Physical Education Teachers

Abstract

Analogy learning is a method of learning which encourages students to abstract new information and match it to already acquired knowledge (Richland & Simms, 2015). This study focuses on the topic of analogy learning and its effectiveness in primary Physical Education (PE) lessons. It aims to explore the perceptions of students and teachers towards the use of analogy learning in PE, as well as the benefits and limitations of this approach. The aims of the study align with the research questions which are the principal impetus for this study. The paper presents the results of a research study that was held in a girls' primary church school in Malta, with students from Grades 1, 3 and 6 participating in either an analogy group (treatment group) or a non-analogy group (control group) during PE lessons. Data was collected through close-ended questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with students and PE stakeholders. The results showed that analogy learning can be beneficial in PE lessons, but it also has limitations. The study also highlighted the need for greater awareness about the use of analogy learning in primary PE lessons.

Author Biographies

Maria Ellul, Our Lady Immaculate School, Hamrun

Maria Ellul has taught Physical Education in a Maltese primary church school for four years. In 2019, she obtained a B.Sc. (Hons) in Sports, Exercise and Health with First Class Honours. She also read for a Master of Education in PE from 2020 to 2023. Besides teaching, Maria is also a Nursery Head Coach of a Swimming Club in Malta. Her areas of research are Physical Education, Analogy Learning, Primary Education, Teaching Methodology and Sports Psychology.

Amanda Bezzina, Institute for Education

Amanda Bezzina, Ph.D., is a Lecturer at the Institute for Education in Malta. For three years, she was the Head of Department in Personal, Social and Career Development (PSCD) with the Ministry for Education. For several years, she was a PSCD teacher and a guidance teacher. She is also a visiting senior lecturer at the University of Malta (UoM). Her areas of specialisation and research interests include holistic education, youth and community development, effective PSD-pedagogy strategies, facilitation and skills development.

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Published

16-11-2023

How to Cite

Ellul, M., & Bezzina, A. (2023). The Effectiveness of Analogy Learning as a Learning Practice Condition in Primary Physical Education. Malta Journal of Education, 4(2), 47–66. https://doi.org/10.62695/ZSNV3229

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