Teachers' Challenges in Enhancing Students' Learning Interest in Physical Education (PJOK) in Schools Across Bungo Regency

Abstract

Physical Education, Sports, and Health (PJOK) learning plays an important role in developing students’ physical fitness, skills, and character. However, low student interest in learning remains a challenge for PJOK teachers, requiring appropriate learning strategies to increase student engagement. This study used a qualitative descriptive method. The research subjects consisted of three PJOK teachers of fifth-grade classes and three students from each elementary school in Bungo Regency. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that PJOK teachers faced several challenges, including differences in students’ interests and abilities, limited learning time, and inadequate facilities and infrastructure. Factors influencing students’ learning interest included student conditions, the learning process, and available facilities. Teachers implemented various strategies, such as games, direct practice, demonstrations, field activities, motivation, and appreciation to improve students’ learning interest. Varied learning strategies were able to increase students’ interest and active participation in PJOK learning, although improvements in facilities and the use of technology are still needed.