Ethical Principles And Bias In Physical Education Tests And Measurements: A Critical Review And Implications For Teachers

Abstract

Ethical principles are fundamental to ensuring the validity, fairness, and educational value of tests and measurements in physical education. Nevertheless, assessment practices in schools continue to face ethical challenges and various forms of bias that may compromise objectivity and the integrity of evaluation outcomes. This article aims to critically examine ethical principles and potential biases in the practice of physical education testing and measurement, as well as their implications for teachers’ professional responsibilities. Employing a qualitative approach with a critical review design, this study focuses on conceptual and reflective analysis grounded in reputable scientific literature and official policy documents related to ethics and bias in physical education assessment. Data were obtained entirely from secondary sources through a systematic literature search using academic databases, including Google Scholar, ERIC, ResearchGate, and Garuda Dikti. The analysis was conducted using content analysis combined with a critical–reflective approach to identify dominant ethical themes, forms of bias, and gaps between theoretical principles and practical implementation. The findings indicate that core ethical principles in physical education testing and measurement encompass honesty, fairness, professional responsibility, objectivity, and respect for students’ dignity. Empirical evidence also reveals that stereotypical bias—particularly related to teachers’ assumptions about students’ gender, cultural background, and physical condition—remains a prevalent issue that undermines assessment accuracy and equity. These findings highlight the necessity for physical education teachers to possess not only strong technical competencies in testing and measurement, but also high ethical awareness and reflective capacity in evaluation practices. The study concludes that the consistent application of ethical principles and effective bias management are critical to producing valid, fair, and meaningful assessments. Ultimately, ethical and unbiased evaluation practices enable physical education to more effectively support students’ physical, mental, and character development in line with comprehensive and equitable educational goals.