Strategic Planning of Physical Education and Sports in Iranian Schools Using QSPM Matrix

Background. Considering the existence of FRDE (Fundamental Reform Document of Education) as a national guideline, there is a need to design strategies for physical education and sports in schools, so that due to the limited resources, reaching the desired targets and plans outlined in the FRDE become possible. Objectives. The purpose of this study is to strategically plan the physical education and sports of Iranian students using the QSPM matrix with a mixed (qualitative-quantitative) method. Methods. The sample of the quantitative section was physical education staff members of the general departments and headquarters (deputy, director, and expert) which was a total of 120 people. The main search tools were as follows: 1- The questionnaire, In the qualitative part, the participants included thirteen professors and knowledgeable experts in the field of education who were interviewed to determine the main components of the questionnaire. 2- IFE, EFE, and SWOT matrices were used to determine the strategic position and strategy development and a quantitative strategic planning matrix (QSPM) was used to prioritize the strategies. Results. The results showed that the strategic position of physical education and sports in Iranian schools is in an offensive position and has six strengths, six weaknesses, six opportunities, and six threats. Analyses determined Four SO strategies, two WO strategies, two ST strategies and one WT strategy, and a total of nine strategies. Conclusion. It seems that based on the prioritization of strategies, the promotion of students' motor literacy, as well as a healthy and active lifestyle as the main targets in physical education and sports in schools, should be considered by policymakers in this field.