EDF1072 - Contemporary issues in health and physical education - 2017

This unit examines how understanding health and physical education (HPE) requires an appreciation of how our lives, the lives of our students and HPE content connect to broader issues within society. Within the context of 'teaching sensitive issues' and 'teaching difficult knowledge', students are supported to use sociological theories to examine power, relationships, difference and diversity. Issues explored are framed within a socio-cultural model for creating safe and supportive learning environments for young people and include sexuality, gender, sexual health, race, religion and ethnicity. Students investigate, critique and describe contemporary developments in HPE and consider how these have influenced, or are likely to influence, practices in schools. Students are introduced to key sociological ideas and are supported to develop knowledge of how to use theory to examine contemporary social issues as well as teaching practice. This deepens knowledge of and appreciation for complex issues in society and the role of HPE in creating safe and supportive learning environments for all students. Students are encouraged to reflect upon and consider how they might develop strategies as future teachers to respond to the issues examined. The unit supports students to implement relevant HPE curriculum in their future careers.

Upon successful completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. articulate and apply a range of sociological theories in relation to key social issues and examine pedagogical practice
2. demonstrate the capacity to explore and critique complex health and social issues in HPE associated with difference, diversity and inclusion
3. collect and display evidence of the ongoing development of Monash graduate attributes, research and professional teaching skills
4. devise ways in which to implement relevant HPE curriculum and pedagogy for learners in diverse local, national and international contexts
5. critically explore the role of schools, HPE and HPE teachers in the provision of safe and supportive learning environments for all students.

Critical letter (1600 words, 40%)

Abstract and poster presentation (2400 words, 60%)

Minimum total expected workload equals 144 hours per semester comprising:

1. Contact hours for on-campus students:
   • one 2-hour workshop per week for 12 weeks
2. Additional requirements:
   • independent study to make up the minimum required hours per week

See also Unit timetable information

Dr Karen Lambert

Primary and secondary health and physical education

Secondary health and physical education