“Wow! They’re Teaching Each Other”: Primary Teachers’ Perspectives of Implementing Cooperative Learning to Accomplish Social and Emotional Learning in Aotearoa New Zealand Physical Education

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore primary teachers’ perspectives of implementing cooperative learning (CL) to accomplish social and emotional learning (SEL) in Aotearoa New Zealand physical education. Method: A qualitative case study design gathered data from 21 teachers at four primary schools using interviews, focus groups, and field notes. Inductive and deductive analysis were used for data analysis. Findings: Four primary themes are presented: emotional processes, social and interpersonal skills, students working it out, and taking time. Findings show that using CL as a pedagogical approach allowed teachers to teach for and accomplish SEL outcomes while accomplishing broader learning outcomes in physical education. However, there appeared to be shortcomings and constraints in the implementation of CL to accomplish SEL outcomes comprehensively. Conclusion: Future research should look to examine and connect professional learning involving pedagogical approaches like CL in physical education to SEL theory and school settings to enhance learning.