In Motion: Online Master’s Degree Enhances Physical Education Teacher’s Development

You grew up in Indiana and currently reside in Arizona. Despite your journey from east to west, Arkansas has never been on your travel list. So, why would you choose to pursue an online master’s degree from the University of Arkansas?

Christopher Knight, an award-winning teacher in Chandler, Arizona, shares several compelling reasons. The program's strong reputation, comprehensive curriculum, affordability, and flexibility were exactly what he sought. Upon enrollment, he discovered that the faculty was genuinely committed to his success.

Knight appreciated his graduate experience at the University of Arkansas so much that he encouraged his wife to enroll as well. He completed a Master of Education in Physical Education from the University of Arkansas’ College of Education and Health Professions, graduating in the spring of 2024. His wife, Lisa, is set to graduate this December with a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, which is also offered by the College of Education and Health Professions.

 

Teaching Award

Now in his 12th year of teaching physical education at Legacy Traditional School, a public charter school in Chandler, Knight is thriving. His outstanding performance earned him the title of Teacher of the Year this spring.

“Being awarded the Teacher of the Year title was incredibly humbling and meaningful,” Knight expressed. “Knowing that my dedication was recognized and valued by my school community meant a lot to me. It confirmed that the time, effort, and passion I invest in teaching are truly making an impact.

Knight’s wife is an elementary classroom teacher at another campus in the Legacy Traditional Schools system.

 

Professional Growth

One way he has advanced in his career is by earning an online master's degree in physical education. He discovered the program while looking for one that matched his professional aspirations. Additionally, he found online testimonials from graduates who praised the program and shared positive experiences.

“I specifically sought a university with a strong reputation, and the U of A distinguished itself as both respected and student-oriented,” Knight stated. “The curriculum appeared both manageable and engaging for a working professional, which was crucial for me. The flexibility of the online format and the program's affordability also made it a wise investment, both personally and professionally.”

The in-state tuition for fully online programs at U of A was also appealing, and his school district covered half of his tuition fees.

“This program met many of my criteria,” Knight remarked. “I was looking for a program that could enhance my teaching effectiveness and also serve as a possible pathway to potential future career opportunities. An added advantage was the salary increase associated with obtaining a master’s degree, which made the decision even more worthwhile.”

 

Importance of Movement

According to Knight, physical education has evolved over the years, now placing greater emphasis on the emotional and social development of students, overall wellness through diverse activities, and cross-curricular integration when possible.

While some schools are cutting back on physical education, Knight’s school provides physical education several times a week. Students in grades 3 through 6 have the option to join the Momentum program, which lays a foundation focusing on health, confidence, and athleticism from a young age. Participants engage in 45 minutes of physical activity four days a week in this program.

“Having them four days a week allows me to truly connect with them,” Knight explained. “It’s vital to keep children active and socially engaged, with an increased emphasis on social and emotional learning, which I find beneficial. We discuss their body language during and after activities and games, sportsmanship, and how they treat both teammates and opponents.”

 

Program Highlights

The relevance to his day-to-day teaching proved to be a highlight of the U of A master’s program for Knight.

“I could immediately implement what I was learning into my own classroom, which made the experience feel purposeful and rewarding,” he said.

The instructors were “incredibly supportive and accessible,” Knight said, especially his adviser and professor, Jack Kern. Knight noted that Kern, a longtime faculty member and program coordinator, stood out to him because of the encouragement and support he offered. After an assignment was turned in, Kern often sent a video of himself offering feedback and checking in with students.

“That level of connection made a big difference,” Knight said. “I also appreciated the diverse range of topics covered and the emphasis on current trends in physical education.”

Additionally, time management is key to success, Knight said.

“You really need to get into a routine,” he said. “If you’re not prepared with your time and try to wing it, that’s not going to work out very well.”