The role of physical education teachers in spreading environmental awareness among middle school students

Abstract

    The study aimed to assess how effectively physical education (PE) teachers contribute to fostering environmental awareness among intermediate school students. The research focuses on evaluating their influence in shaping positive environmental attitudes and identifying strengths and weaknesses in their role, with the goal of improving their contribution to sustainable environmental education. A descriptive survey method was used, which is appropriate for observing educational phenomena. The study was conducted in the city center of Al-Kut during the academic year 2024–2025. The target population included 400 students, from which a purposive sample of 104 students (26%) was selected. Data was collected using a 16-item closed-ended questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale (Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree). The tool’s validity was ensured through expert review and construct validity, while reliability was confirmed using the test-retest method, The study found that PE teachers demonstrated varying levels of environmental awareness. It also concluded that physical education lessons require a specialized curriculum to integrate environmental awareness effectively into sports activities.