Self-Efficacy and teaching skills of physical education and sports teacher candidates

The aim of this research is to examine the relationship between personal-professional competency perceptions and teaching skills of teacher candidates studying in the field of sports sciences. Additionally, it seeks to determine whether these variables differ according to various demographic characteristics. The study has been conducted using the relational screening model, one of the quantitative research methods. The sample consists of 222 students enrolled in the Faculty of Sports Sciences. Data have been collected through the Personal-Professional Competency Perception Scale and the Teaching Skills Scale. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and simple linear regression analysis have been used in the analysis. The results of the research show that there are positive and significant relationships between personal-professional competency perception and teaching skills, and that personal-professional competency perception is a significant predictor of teaching skills. As a result, significant differences have been found based on age, class level, and academic success; however, no significant differences have been identified concerning gender, sports branch, and the status of being a licensed athlete.