Opportunities in Differentiated School Sports Exemption - Results of An Online-Survey and Review of the Literature

Background Physical education and sports participation in school play a major role in overall activity of children and adolescents. A differentiated school sports exemption (DSE) allows sports participation adapted to the individual's ability. Method Online-survey among physicians (2019) and physical education (PE) teachers (in two waves, 2017 and 2019), on their opinion towards the concept of DSE with respect to professional and demographic parameters. Answers were scaled on a 6-point Likert scale. Means and 95% confidence intervals (95%-CI) were calculated. Results Complete questionnaires of 97 physicians and 280 teachers were included. A mean of 10,3% (95%-CI: 9,5-11,1%) of students, did not participate in PE class. In most cases, students were excused directly by their parents without consulting a physician. Most frequent reasons for exemption were missing sports gear (62%), common colds (54%), or acute injuries (50%). Chronic disease or disability was rare (8%). Most teachers did not feel well prepared to deal with children with chronic diseases or disabilities in PE class. Many physicians (24%) had never considered DSE. However, the concept was well accepted among both physicians and teachers. It was considered more practicable than exemption from being marked. Discussion According to participants, DSE is expedient and feasible. As a secondary option, students with chronic disease or disability may be exempted from being marked in PE class by their physician. Conclusion The concept of DSE was widely accepted, but rarely used. It can be applied in various scenarios. In order to improve sports participation, a national standardized procedure should to be implemented.

Automated summary

Background Physical education and sports participation are important for children and adolescents. A differentiated school sports exemption (DSE) allows individualized sports participation. In an online survey, physicians and physical education teachers were asked about their opinions on DSE. Results showed that DSE was well accepted but rarely used. Most exemptions were due to lack of sports gear, common colds, or acute injuries. Chronic diseases or disabilities were less common reasons for exemption. Teachers felt unprepared to handle students with chronic diseases or disabilities in PE class.