Abstract

This paper aims to analyse a physical education intervention based on the pedagogical model of teaching personal and social responsibility through physical activity (TPSR) and students’ motivation towards physical education (PE) class at a secondary school. Using mixed methods research, we merge a systematic observational methodology of sessions and questionnaires in order to compare the teaching behaviours of two teachers at a public school in Lleida (Spain) during a three-month period. One teacher implemented a traditional style based on task assignment, while the other teacher introduced an innovative methodology based on awareness, responsibility for action, group meetings and self-assessment. A total of 44 students, 21 females and 23 males (M = 13.95; SD = 1.08), participated in the study. Results show that compared with the traditional approach, TPSR has a positive influence on student development in class and on students’ subsequent favourable perceptions of their Basic Psychological Needs, motivation in physical education, athleticism and active lifestyle.