INTEGRATING ENGLISH IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORT: STUDENTS' PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

In today's globalized world, English proficiency is a critical factor for success in various fields, including sports. This study investigates the specific needs and interests of first-year Physical Education and Sport (PES) students at South-West University in Bulgaria regarding English language learning. Limited Research, High Demand Existing research on the needs of PES students for English is scarce, making it difficult to address their unique challenges. This study aims to bridge this gap by understanding their current English language proficiency, their goals for improvement, and their preferred teaching methods. Survey Insights: Demographics and Language Learning A survey of 100 PES students revealed a majority of males aged 19-24. Students expressed diverse perspectives on English learning. Some desired interactive methods and a variety of materials like sports texts and videos. Others emphasized improving pronunciation of sports terminology and gaining confidence to communicate in various sporting situations. The survey highlighted the need for practical exercises focusing on sports scenarios and communication skill development. English in the Life of a PES Student. The study underscores the importance of English in a PES student's career. Students identified English as a key tool for communication with coaches, teammates, international organizations, and sponsors. Furthermore, proficiency in English allows them to stay updated on the latest trends and innovations in the world of sports. Integrating English for Success To better prepare PES students for the global sporting community, the study emphasizes the need to integrate English effectively into their physical education curriculum. Students suggested incorporating English into teaching materials and lectures, organizing discussions and projects on sports topics, and creating multilingual resources. Conclusion and Future Directions The survey results show a significant interest among PES students in learning English and a strong recognition of its value for their future careers. This study emphasizes the need to integrate English strategically into the curriculum to enhance their communication skills and ability to adapt within the international sporting community. Future research can delve deeper into specific methods and approaches for integrating English into the PES curriculum. Additionally, research can explore the effectiveness of various educational strategies and programs in improving students' language skills and their impact on their future career success in the global sports arena.