Cooperative games in school physical education programs: promoting interpersonal relationships

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the interpersonal relationships of 4th- and 5th-year elementary school students before and after the use of cooperative games during physical education classes and recess. Method: A total of eleven students, aged between 7 and 12 years and enrolled at a school in the city of Mafra (SC), were subjects in this study. An objective sociometric test was used, and a descriptive analysis of the responses was performed. Graphical representations were obtained through Ciber Test software, version 8.1.1. Results: We observed a decrease in the number of negative ratings of students by their colleagues after the experience of cooperative games in physical education classes, suggesting an improvement in relations between the students, both in physical education classes and in the playground. Conclusion: Games can be used in classes to stimulate self-knowledge, interaction, cooperation, and respect among students.