"Physical Education is the sum of change in the individual caused by experiences centering motor activities." Who said?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (3):
This classic and pivotal definition of Physical Education is correctly attributed to Rosalind Cassidy. Cassidy, a highly respected American physical educator, formulated this definition to solidify the subject's place as an integral and indispensable part of the overall education system, moving beyond the traditional view of physical training as merely exercise. By stating that Physical Education is the "sum of change in the individual," she emphasizes a holistic developmental process—that the experiences derived from motor activities cause psychological, social, and emotional growth in addition to physical development. This quote focuses on the educational outcomes and the total transformation of the learner through the central medium of movement.

The incorrect option is (1):
C. A. Bucher's definition of Physical Education is distinctly different from the one cited in the question. Bucher defined it as "an integral part of total educational process, and has its aim for the development of physically, mentally, socially and emotionally fit citizens through the medium of physical activities." His focus is on the broad objective of cultivating a well-rounded, fit, and responsible citizen, explicitly listing the four domains of development. While both definitions see physical education as an educational process, Bucher’s statement is programmatic, focusing on the ultimate goal of producing 'fit citizens'. The question's quote, however, is a more concise, learning-theory-based statement emphasizing the 'change in the individual' directly resulting from 'motor activities'.

The incorrect option is (2):
C. C. Cowell is well-known for his sociological definition of Physical Education. Cowell defined it as "the social process of change in the behavior of the human organism, originating primarily from the stimulus of social, big muscle play and related activities." The key elements in Cowell's definition are the "social process" and the "social stimulus." He emphasized that physical activity is a mechanism for social learning and behavioral change through group interaction and play. This focus on the external, social factors that trigger change is what differentiates his statement from Rosalind Cassidy's, which places the experience of the *motor activity* itself at the center of the individual's change.

The incorrect option is (4):
C. L. Brownell collaborated with J. F. Williams on a well-known definition. Their combined quote states that Physical Education is "the sum of man's physical activities selected as to kind and conducted as to outcomes." This definition is often interpreted as focusing on the curricular and planned nature of physical education, where the activities are carefully chosen and organized to achieve predetermined results. Unlike Cassidy's statement, which defines the subject by the resulting *change* in the individual, the Brownell/Williams definition is focused on the selection and administration of the *activities* themselves to realize specific *outcomes*.