Development of the system for observing virtual real time lessons in physical education (SOVRTL-PE): A tool to support preservice teachers’ applied learning experiences

Abstract

In tandem with increased reliance on virtual teaching in K-12 schools, the purpose of this study was to develop a systematic observation instrument – the System for Observing Virtual Real Time Lessons in Physical Education (SOVRTL-PE) – to support teacher candidates' development of distance-delivery teaching skills during preservice training. SOVRTL-PE is designed specifically to capture and measure recommended instructional practices for teaching synchronous online physical education (OLPE) lessons to students in K-12 school settings. Instrument development entailed steps taken to address validity and reliability. To address validity, we created an a priori conceptual framework from the literature on OLPE, drew from observations of OLPE lessons and conducted a Delphi survey. Steps taken to address reliability included devising a coding system, pilot testing the instrument, and establishing inter- and intra-observer reliability. Results supported the validity and reliability of SOVRTL-PE. This new instrument provides teacher education programs with an evidence-informed tool to optimize teacher candidates’ preparation for effectively conducting lessons when OLPE is a suitable alternative to in-person educational programming.