Establishment of female students’ participation in physical activity in selected secondary schools in Kampala

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the establishment of female students’ participation in physical activity in selected secondary schools in Kampala. To achieve this, 61 female students, 72 male students and 3 Physical Education teachers were purposively selected as the study sample. The instruments were questionnaire, the interview guide, observation sheet and focus group discussions. For quantitative data, the questionnaires were distributed to the 61 female students and 72 male students. For qualitative data, the Interviews were conducted with 3 Physical Education teachers, Focus group discussions where held with students in groups of 5 and observation sheets were used to check on quality of avenues. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics summarizing it in tables, frequency and percentages. The qualitative data was analysed and interpreted in the form of narration by getting familiar with the data, assigning labels or codes that were used to identify the sections that relate to ideas or concepts, then searching for concepts or codes to make sure they fit the data, then define and name the concepts and finally create a coherent narrative. The findings of the study evidence gaps between boys and girls in practical class participation. The study findings also revealed that there is a big difference between the numbers of girls that engage in physical activities compared to those enrolled. The study findings also indicate challenges faced by girls in practical activities. Required resources like materials and equipment were found inadequate in the schools. The result clearly showed that girls experience many and varied barriers to participating in physical activity and participation in P.E practical classes. These include; discouragement from teachers and peers, fatigue, risk for injuries, health status, e.g. menstruation periods and asthma, inadequate equipment, low motivation and lack of self-confidence, body shape and age differences. The study concluded that providing the required facilitates, balance of teams and uniform distribution, continued supervision and motivation, considering their interests, creating interactive interface and providing female teachers to girls’ teams can ably encourage girls to engage more in different P.E practical activities.