What is generally the strongest predictor of student success in a PE class?

The strongest predictor of student success in a physical education class is often how students perceive their teacher's expectations for their success. When students believe that their teacher expects them to succeed, they tend to develop a positive mindset toward their participation and performance in physical education. This perception fosters motivation, self-efficacy, and a willingness to engage in physical activities. High expectations can lead to increased effort and resilience, which are critical for overcoming challenges and improving skills in PE.

In contrast, factors such as student attendance can certainly impact participation but do not necessarily reflect the overall potential for success in a PE setting. Similarly, while the difficulty level of activities is important in ensuring that students are challenged but still capable of achieving success, it does not hold the same weight as the psychological impact of teacher expectations. Lastly, prior experience with sports may provide a foundation for some students, but it is their belief in the support and expectations of their teacher that primarily drives engagement and success in learning new skills and concepts in physical education. This highlights the importance of creating a supportive and positive educational environment where expectations are communicated effectively to encourage student achievement.