Laurier-Waterloo Public Library virtual EdTalks lecture to focus on the importance of physical education

April 19, 2021
For Immediate Release

Waterloo – Anne Facey, a contract teaching faculty member in Wilfrid Laurier University’s Faculty of Education, will explore the importance of physical education in supporting learning and overall health and well-being as part of the Laurier EdTalks: Innovation in Education series. The lecture series is presented by Laurier’s Faculty of Education and Government and Community Relations team in partnership with the Waterloo Public Library.

Facey will present Physical Literacy in the 21st Century on April 28 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. The lecture is free and open to the public, but registration is required. The event will be an interactive experience, with opportunities to ask questions.

“Studies have shown that those who are physically educated can expect to make better choices for their health and well-being,” said Facey, who teaches physical education and health. “In this presentation, we will explore the meaning and importance of physical literacy in the 21st century and why the implementation of a quality physical education program is the gateway for all other learning.”

Research has shown that physical education is in decline in Canadian schools. As sedentary lifestyles continue to threaten the overall well-being of Canadians, Facey says physical education can provide children and youth with the opportunity to learn healthy habits. In her lecture, she will also share how physical education has changed from post-war calisthenics and traditional sports to a more individualized model, where students can take advantage of a variety of physical activities.

Facey has taught in public and private schools in the Waterloo area for 34 years. Besides teaching in Laurier’s Faculty of Education, she also supervises teacher candidates and works as a professional development writer and workshop facilitator with the Ontario Physical and Health Education Association.

The Laurier EdTalks: Innovation in Education lecture series was launched in January in response to increasing concern about how children and youth are adjusting to remote learning and social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lecture series highlights leadership and expertise within Laurier’s Faculty of Education.

Members of the faculty will present virtual talks each month until June. Future Laurier EdTalks lectures will focus on building resiliency in children and youth and inspiring innovation. Find out more about the Laurier EdTalks: Innovation in Education series.