Toward a position stand of the SISMeS PE&SP Research Group: the role and mission of Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy in Italy

Aim. Physical Education (PE) and Sport Pedagogy (SP) are well defined academic fields (Armour, 2011; European Commission/EACEA/Eurydice, 2013). The interest in this area is reflected in several international scientific associations (e.g. AIESEP, FIEP, ICSSPE, ICHPER-SD) and a number of scientific journals focusing on learning, teaching and instruction in PE, physical activity (PA) and sport (e.g. European Physical Education Review, Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy). In Italy, there is a debate surrounding the role of PE across school grades, the epistemological status of SP, and the need to promote both national and international research projects. It is also necessary to re-think and promote actions for the preparation and continuous professional development of PE teachers. It is crucial to implement new policies to enhance PA, PE and sport participation. Method. The SISMeS PE&SP Research Group has been established on February 2016 based on the experience of a TFA (Tirocinio Formativo Attivo) discussion group, which developed guidelines for PE teachers’ initial preparation. Results. Main purpose of the Research Group is to facilitate the interaction among professionals, politicians and scholars for health-related PA. Specifically, the mission of the Research Group is: (a) reinforcing the network among Italian scholars; (b) promoting best practices in the PA teaching-learning domain; (c) preparing guidelines and recommendations for inspiring policies related to PA, PE and sport; (d) developing collaboration with stakeholders and professional organizations. Conclusions. According to the Research Group vision on PA, a position stand will be forwarded on the role and mission of PE and SP in Italy. Continuous professional development initiatives for teachers’ and sport practitioners’ in-service training are also proposed. Reference. Armour, K. (2011). Sport pedagogy: an introduction for teaching and coaching. London: Routledge. European Commission/EACEA/Eurydice (2013). Physical Education and Sport at School in Europe Eurydice Report. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union.