Background of the study
Teachers’ instructional strategies are pivotal in shaping students’ engagement and performance in physical education (PE). In Lafia Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, the quality of instruction in PE classes has come under increased scrutiny, as educators seek to enhance student performance and overall participation. Effective teaching strategies in PE not only improve motor skills and physical fitness but also foster a positive attitude towards health and well‐being (Okoro, 2023). Research indicates that interactive and student-centered approaches, which include cooperative learning, demonstration, and formative feedback, lead to improved performance and increased motivation among students (Jibril, 2024). In Lafia, where there is a growing recognition of the importance of PE, instructional methods are evolving from traditional, lecture-based models to more dynamic and participatory techniques. These modern approaches are designed to engage students actively and encourage them to take responsibility for their own learning. Moreover, the diversity in students’ abilities and interests necessitates differentiated instructional strategies that can cater to individual needs. Teachers who adopt innovative methods often report higher levels of student satisfaction and performance, which in turn contributes to a more positive school environment. In addition, the integration of technology in PE—such as video analysis and interactive applications—has been shown to enhance understanding and performance in sports activities (Uche, 2024). This study seeks to examine how various instructional strategies used by PE teachers influence student performance in Lafia. By focusing on methods that promote active engagement, skill development, and positive reinforcement, the research aims to identify best practices that can be replicated in similar educational settings. The findings will not only add to the academic literature on effective teaching in PE but will also provide practical insights for educators and policymakers. Emphasizing a holistic approach to education, this study recognizes that improved performance in physical education has broader implications for overall student health, self-esteem, and academic success (Abubakar, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite numerous innovations in instructional strategies for physical education, many students in Lafia Local Government Area continue to exhibit suboptimal performance in PE classes. Traditional methods, which often rely on repetitive drills and minimal student interaction, may not address the diverse learning needs of students, resulting in disengagement and reduced physical competency. This gap between available teaching methods and actual student performance is of concern to educators and policymakers alike. In many schools, the lack of tailored instructional strategies has contributed to a decline in student interest, with some students demonstrating low motivation and limited skill acquisition. Although modern, student-centered approaches have been proposed, their implementation is sporadic and not uniformly adopted across schools. Additionally, constraints such as inadequate training for PE teachers and limited access to innovative teaching tools further exacerbate the problem. Consequently, there is insufficient evidence on how different instructional strategies impact student outcomes in PE. The absence of comprehensive research in this area means that schools may continue to rely on outdated methods, ultimately hindering the development of students’ physical abilities and overall health. This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating the effect of teachers’ instructional strategies on students’ performance in physical education. It will explore various methods—from traditional drills to modern, interactive techniques—and assess their effectiveness in improving student engagement, skill development, and overall performance. By identifying the key factors that contribute to successful teaching in PE, the study seeks to provide evidence-based recommendations that can guide future curriculum reforms and teacher training programs. Addressing this problem is essential for creating a more dynamic and effective physical education environment that promotes the holistic development of students (Babatunde, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
To assess the current instructional strategies used by PE teachers.
To evaluate the impact of these strategies on student performance in PE.
To identify best practices that can enhance teaching effectiveness in physical education.
Research questions:
What instructional strategies are currently used by PE teachers in Lafia?
How do these strategies influence student performance in physical education?
What best practices can be identified to improve teaching effectiveness in PE?
Research Hypotheses:
H₁: There is a significant positive relationship between innovative instructional strategies and student performance in PE.
H₂: Student-centered teaching methods lead to higher engagement and skill development in PE.
H₃: The integration of technology in PE instruction improves overall student performance.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it examines the impact of teachers’ instructional strategies on student performance in physical education. The research offers valuable insights into effective teaching methods that enhance student engagement, skill development, and overall physical competence. Its findings are expected to inform curriculum design and teacher training programs, promoting modern, student-centered approaches in PE. By identifying best practices, the study contributes to improving educational outcomes and fostering healthier lifestyles among students. Its outcomes are expected to substantially influence modern educational practices and physical education pedagogy.
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to investigating the impact of teachers’ instructional strategies on students’ performance in physical education within selected schools in Lafia Local Government Area, Nasarawa State. It focuses solely on PE classes and does not account for influences from other academic subjects or extracurricular activities. Variations in school resources and teacher training may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Definitions of terms:
Instructional Strategies: Methods and techniques employed by teachers to facilitate learning and improve student performance.
Physical Education (PE): A subject in the school curriculum that involves physical activities and sports aimed at improving fitness and motor skills.
Student Performance: The measurable outcomes of students’ abilities, skills, and achievements in physical education.
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