Comparison of physical education course in compulsory education in Türkiye-Norway-Sweden and Finland education systems

Abstract

This study aims to compare the current education systems in Trkiye, Norway, Sweden and Finland and the importance of Physical Education course in the compulsory education systems of these countries. In the study, the general aims of education systems, the bodies that run the education system, compulsory education periods, pre-school education, primary education, secondary education, higher education and the place of Physical Education course in the compulsory education systems of these countries were compared. Comparative research design was applied in the study. Data were collected through document analysis method. The data on the education systems of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Trkiye and the importance of physical education courses in compulsory education in these countries were obtained from books, articles, and institutional websites, curriculum/program directives, official documents and annual reports. The data obtained were analyzed and the educational systems of Trkiye, Norway, Sweden and Finland and the place of Physical Education courses in compulsory education in these systems were compared and similarities and differences were revealed. As a result, it was concluded that the education systems of Norway, Sweden and Finland are run by the central government and local administrations, whereas in Trkiye they are run by the central government, Trkiye has the longest compulsory education period among these countries, and Trkiye has the most number of physical education class hours in compulsory education. Based on the data obtained as a result of these comparisons, suggestions were made for the Turkish education system.