THE UNIVERSITY of EDINBURGH

DEGREE REGULATIONS & PROGRAMMES OF STUDY 2021/2022

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DRPS : Course Catalogue : Moray House School of Education and Sport : Education

Undergraduate Course: Physical Culture: Philosophical and Sociological Perspectives 1 (EDUA08120)

Course Outline
SchoolMoray House School of Education and Sport CollegeCollege of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Credit level (Normal year taken)SCQF Level 8 (Year 1 Undergraduate) AvailabilityNot available to visiting students
SCQF Credits20 ECTS Credits10
SummaryThe course aims to help students develop an understanding of physical culture so that their professional practice is informed and underpinned by philosophical and sociocultural perspectives. Physical culture is a term with historical origins which is now being used in contemporary analyses focused on understanding institutionalised forms of physical activity. Understanding the historical and contemporary relationship between physical activity, physical exercise, physical recreation, leisure, dance and sport is necessary for informed professional practice in physical education and sports science. A relational analysis of the institutionalised forms of physical activity enables the identification of the complex and interconnected forms of engagement that take place. A key part of the course is the critical analysis of how physical culture is evaluated, appreciated and engaged with within contemporary society. Students, through critical analysis of relevant and recent research, consider how their experience of physical culture influences the formation of their identity and the implications that this may have for professional practice in physical education and sport science.
Course description The course critically analyses key philosophical and sociological perspectives of physical culture:

- Exploring the historical and contemporary usage of 'physical culture' including and the interrelated nature of institutionalised forms of physical activity and their roots within different cultures.

- Key literature and concepts such as 'relational analysis' will be considered to develop student understanding of the different experiences of individuals and groups within society in relation to the concepts of the legitimate body and the legitimate use of the body.

- Students will engage with academic literature on the socially and politically mediated nature of 'physical culture' by examining the commercialisation, commoditization and representation in the media and consider how perceptions of physical culture influence the formation of identities.

The course will use the Universities VLE as part of a mixed approach to teaching and learning. Key lecture presentations during the course from University staff, will provide important syntheses of core concepts central to students understanding of the courses aims and learning outcomes. In addition to the lecture programme, the VLE will support student¿s engagement and learning by providing on-online learning materials and activities. Students will be required to study independently before and after key presentations, so that they are able to engage in the workshops that follow. Students will participate in practical workshops in learning teams, engaging in cooperative learning activities. Workshops will focus on the critical evaluation and analysis of relevant research literature that forms the core of the required reading for the course. Students will undertake detailed critical reading and discussion of research papers, relating to the key topic covered by each block. The workshops and supporting online material will aid students in developing their ability to critique academic literature and develop an enquiring analysis of the concept of physical culture. It will also provide them with a further opportunity to relate the ideas covered in the lectures. As part of the workshop programme, practical experiential workshops will take place, which will engage students in the creation of movement pieces.
Entry Requirements (not applicable to Visiting Students)
Pre-requisites Co-requisites
Prohibited Combinations Other requirements None
Course Delivery Information
Not being delivered
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this course, the student will be able to:
  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the historical and contemporary conceptions of physical culture informed by relevant philosophical and sociological concepts and theories.
  2. Identify and address critical issues in institutionalised forms of physical activity by drawing on relevant literature.
  3. Evaluate the contribution that a philosophical perspective on physical culture and institutionalised forms of physical activity makes to professional practice.
  4. Analyse research literature to identify and discuss how experiences and perceptions of ¿physical culture¿ influence the formation of identity and individuals sense of self.
  5. Communicate a developing awareness of how physical culture and the interconnected nature of bodily experiences can inform professional practice.
Reading List
1. Chambers, F., Sandford, R. (2019). Learning to be human in a digital world: a model of values fluency education for physical education. Sport, Education and Society, 24(9), 925-938.
2. Costa, L.,McNamee, M. and Lacerda, T. (2015) Physical education as an aesthetic-ethical educational project. European Physical Education Review 21:2, pages 162-175.
3. Gray, S., MacIsaac, S., Jess, M., (2015). Teaching 'health' in physical education in a healthy way. Retos, 28, 26-33.
4. Laker, A. (2002). The sociology of sport and physical education. London: Routledge.
5. Metcalfe, S. (2018). Adolescent constructions of gendered identities: the role of sport and (physical) education. Sport, Education and Society, 23(7), 681-693.
Additional Information
Graduate Attributes and Skills Graduate attributes: Research and Enquiry

1) Search for, access, critically analyse, evaluate and synthesise relevant literature and information in order to develop their knowledge and understanding relating to education, physical education, physical activity, sport and well-being.
2) Critically question current physical education knowledge and policy and how these elements relate to wider issues within society nationally and globally (e.g., environmental, health and sustainability issues).
3) Identify and define problems relating to education, physical education, physical activity, sport and well-being research methods to address these.
6) Recognise the importance of reflecting on the learning experience.

Graduate attributes: Personal and intellectual autonomy

3) Be open to new perspectives, methods and creative ideas in understanding education, physical education, physical activity, sport and well-being.
4) Be able to reflect on social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application of their knowledge and judgments in education, physical education, physical activity, sport and well-being.

Graduate attributes: Skills and abilities in communication

3) Be able to engage in critical discussion demonstrating listening skills, effective use of evidence and own experience to support assertions, and clear articulation of points.
4) Be able to seek and value open feedback to inform genuine self- awareness.

Graduate attributes: Personal effectiveness

2) Have the confidence to make informed decisions relating to problems and issues in physical education.
5) Be able to effectively work collaboratively with others, recognising the diversity of contributions individuals can make.
KeywordsPhysical Education,Physical Culture,Health and Wellbeing,Philosophical,Sociological
Contacts
Course organiserMr Murray Craig
Tel: (0131 6)51 6043
Email: mcraig2@exseed.ed.ac.uk
Course secretaryMs Barbara Kucharska
Tel: (0131 6)51 1196
Email: v1bkucha@ed.ac.uk
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