The integration of social and emotional components into physical education is crucial for developing not only physical abilities but also essential social, emotional, and character skills for real-life applications. This conclusion was drawn from a presentation by Prof. Dr. Yoshinori Okade from Nippon Sport Science University, who served as the keynote speaker discussing “Character Development in Physical Education” at the 4th International Seminar of Physical Education, Sport, and Health (4th ISPESH) in 2024.

This international seminar was initiated by the Physical Education, Health, and Recreation Study Program (PJKR) of the Faculty of Sports and Health Education (FPOK) at Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI). It was conducted in a hybrid format, both online and offline, at the FPMIPA Auditorium, UPI Bumi Siliwangi Campus, Jalan Dr. Setiabudhi No. 229, Bandung, on Thursday, July 25, 2024.

Prof. Yoshinori Okade emphasized the importance of teaching social skills explicitly, much like motor and cognitive skills. He stated, “Social and emotional learning is crucial for character development and education. There are specific procedures to develop good character in physical education.”

The discussion highlighted three rules for promoting social and emotional learning (SEL) in physical education: listen attentively, communicate your thoughts, and speak positively. The suggested procedures during advice time at the end of a physical education lesson include: student 1 gives a self-assessment to a peer; student 2 provides positive feedback to student 1; student 1 thanks student 2; roles rotate within the group; and the session ends with students clapping for each other after peer assessment.

The social and emotional competencies and skills outlined include self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.