The Ecology of the Gymnasium: What the Tourists Never See.

This report discusses the attractive reputation of the physical education teacher and why many instructors lack job satisfaction. Long vacations, high job security, and a pleasant work environment are only several aspects of the profession which reinforce high expectations in students becoming gym teachers. However, little has been stressed in education classes concerning the mundane day-to-day routine of the elementary or secondary physical education teacher. According to the report, incidents that may lead to employment dissatisfaction are: (a) inadequate preparation for the daily routine of being a gym teacher, (b) lack of inservice training until internship, and (c) the discovery that only a small segment of time is devoted to instruction. The author then describes, through impressions of one observer, how physical education teachers feel about their work. The difficulties faced by teachers include (a) large classes, (b) diversity in students, (c) the nature of the subject matter, (d) time constraints, (e) lack of direct rewards of teaching, (f) psychological isolation from adults, and (g) bordeom with routine. The author concludes that good teachers will not be driven off by close examination of the teaching role. Rewards are genuine and powerful--but realistic expectations are a necessity. (JS)