Construção de um instrumento de avaliação do desempenho do professor de natação em contexto da adaptação do aluno ao meio aquático

Tese mest. , Observação e Análise da Relação Educativa, 2005, Universidade do AlgarveThe main aim of this study was the creation of an instrument to evaluate the professional performance of the swimming teacher in what concerns the student’s adaptability to the aquatic environment. In this study we were also concerned about knowing and understanding the influence of the educational relation between the professional performance of the swimming teacher and the development of students’ competences. Thus, we emphasised the importance of aspects such as: communication and personal interaction; personal traits, scientific knowledge; teaching methodologies and teaching conditions. Through the study, several research instruments were used to collect and analyse data, namely: questionnaires applied to students and teachers, interviews to the teachers and observation of swimming classes. The theoretical support and document analysis also allowed a deeper reflection about particular aspects of swimming such as the teaching/learning process, the professional competence of the teacher and the development of students’ competences. The evaluation instrument built, a questionnaire, can constitute an effective tool to assess/self-assess the teacher’s performance and to regulate his/her professional activity, allowing a deeper understanding of reality. Another function of this instrument is to support and guide the swimming teacher in the establishment of interpersonal relations, as well as in the adaptation to and integration in the work environment, with regard to aspects such as: organising learning situations, managing the curriculum and growing personal and professionally. Only the effective knowledge of a specific reality can lead to measures and strategies able to optimise teaching practices