Examining the relationship between professional identity perceptions and professional motivation of Physical Education and Sports Teachers

Aim: The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between physical education and sports teachers' perceptions of professional identity and their professional motivation. Material and method: In the study, the relational survey model, one of the quantitative research designs, was used. The population of the study consisted of 490 physical education and sports teachers actively working in middle and high schools affiliated with the Malatya Provincial Directorate of National Education during the 2023/2024 academic year (excluding private schools). The sample consisted of 216 of these teachers. As data collection tools, the "Physical Education and Sports Teachers' Professional Identity Perception Scale" and the "Professional Motivation Scale" were used. The personal information form was developed by the researcher. For data analysis, t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficient were used. Results: The study found a significant difference in physical education and sports teachers' perceptions of professional identity based on gender, age, years of service, education level, and the type of school they work in. Additionally, it was determined that their professional motivation significantly varied based on age, education level, and the type of school they work in. Conclusion: The study concluded that there is a moderately significant positive relationship between physical education and sports teachers' perceptions of professional identity and their levels of professional motivation. Accordingly, as the professional motivation levels of physical education and sports teachers increase, their perceptions of professional identity also increase in parallel. Keywords: Physical Education and Sports Teachers, Professional Identity, Professional Motivation