Basic Physical Education Program

The University of Pittsburgh has charged the Basic Physical Education Program to provide specific services to its population. The following mission statement drives that charge.

Philosophy

Physical education makes its contribution through the use of vigorous muscular activity. The individual's needs are our first consideration. The harmonious development of his/her mental, emotional, and physical being is the cornerstone of our philosophy.

Aims

The aims of this program are:

• to offer the individual a variety of opportunities for leisure pursuit and personal development
to provide an education in wellness which will enable the individual to adapt to the aging process.

Objectives

• To educate for leisure and wellness.
• To afford the student an opportunity to acquire knowledge and a degree of proficiency in the skills of selected activities.
• To offer activities that will enable the student to expand fitness levels in order to meet the demands of modern living.
• To afford the opportunity for further social development.

Program Assumptions

• The program should be available to all students.
• The program should include innovative activities to meet the changing needs of students.
• The program should be interesting and challenging to them.
• The program should offer activities in a variety of areas.
• The program should stress knowledge and understanding of the value of physical activity.
• The program should stress the study and practice of the science and art of movement.
• The program should stress lifetime skills.
• The program should be conducted by qualified individuals.

Curriculum

There are many factors involved in making curricular decisions. The philosophy, aim, and objectives of the program, as well as the facilities and equipment available, staff competencies, budget, class size, time allotment, student interest, student needs, cultural demands, and activities which are known to be valid from past experience of physical educators.

More specifically, the curriculum includes diverse course offerings in co-educational activities, activities for day, night, campus and commuter populations, as well as, adaptive programming. A range of ability within the same course is a reality and must be properly handled.

The program offers a variety of activities to meet the previously stated criteria. They include aquatics, dance, wellness, combative, team sports, outdoor pursuits and lifetime activities.

Course Offerings