Academic production on health in high school physical education classes: A scoping review

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the academic production of graduate programs, focusing on different approaches to health in Physical Education (PE) classes in high school. A scoping review was conducted by searching for master's dissertations and doctoral theses in electronic databases. Of the 1,239 studies identified, 23 were synthesized. Publications from 2010 to 2022 were predominantly from the South and Southeast regions, particularly in public schools. Intervention approaches stood out, prioritizing theoretical-conceptual perspectives to encourage behavioral changes in physical activity practices. Initiatives to promote youth leadership were identified, emphasizing the essential role of the PE teacher as an educational mediator. It is concluded that academic production is still limited, with regional gaps and a need for diversification of pedagogical approaches, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary research and active methodologies that value student leadership.