EDUCATION OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS IN PRIMARY SCHOOL LEVEL IN MACEDONIA AND BULGARIA

Effectiveness and quality of physical education teaching process is determined by many factors. The key factor in this process is the teacher, particularly his/hers abilities to plan, organize and realize the PE teaching process according to students abilities and interests, following the prescribed curriculum and using all available resources and equipment. Educating future physical education teachers is not a simple process of transmission of knowledge, but it is also a process of training for practical work of students – future teachers. The aim of this research is to analyze and compare the initial education of future PE subject teachers and general classroom teachers that will teach PE in primary schools, studying at the Universities in Macedonia and Bulgaria. The analyses of documentation and comparative analyses are used as a research method. Similarity in some components of the programs are established. Similar study programs and exam requirements could be note at Teaching faculties in Macedonia and Bulgaria that prepare generalist teachers as well as certain similarities between requirements for PE specialists educated at Faculty of sport and PE and National Sport Academy. Different requirements and approaches in realization of teaching practice and practical work of students’ future generalist’s teachers and PE specialist in Macedonia and Bulgaria can be outlined. Recommendations are given for improving the current situation in both countries.