Transformative Learning and Teaching in Physical Education

The symposium on Transformative Learning and Teaching in Physical Education aims to engage with some of the major challenges and opportunities which shape and define the part physical education and sports pedagogy can play in... [ view full abstract ]

The symposium on Transformative Learning and Teaching in Physical Education aims to engage with some of the major challenges and opportunities which shape and define the part physical education and sports pedagogy can play in reshaping education futures. This context raises demanding issues about learners’ experiences in physical education and the extent to which teachers’ consider themselves sufficiently empowered to connect with innovative futures and the greater realisation of changing societal objectives. The papers supporting the symposium therefore reflect from contrasting perspectives a focus on creating thriving and sustainable futures. From a theoretical perspective Nicola Carse begins the symposium using an ecological framework and complexity principles as the basis for analysing teacher professional learning and professionalism as a career-long endeavour. Thereafter, from a school perspective, Justine MacLean and Andrew Horrell critically review the physical education teacher as an agent of policy and curriculum change and the role professional learning communities’ play in school based curriculum development. The symposium concludes with Shirley Gray reviewing from a practice perspective, the part teachers’ pedagogical practices can play in creating autonomy-supportive learning environments which are capable of improving health and wellbeing in physical education.