Introduction
Welcome to our podcast, where we delve into the world of physical education and its importance in shaping young minds. Today, we’re joined by Jordan, the Associate Head of School for Education and Science at the University of Gloucestershire, as he takes us on a journey through his educational experiences and the significance of physical education, before exploring the realm of meaningful physical education (PE) through the lens of parkour. Our guest shares insights from his experience implementing a parkour unit within the school curriculum as a dynamic and engaging activity that offers unique learning opportunities for students, highlighting the key components and strategies employed to foster meaningful learning.
Educational Journey
Jordan shares his educational journey, from his beginnings as a PE teacher to his current role in higher education. After spending nearly a decade teaching PE and gaining invaluable experience, he transitioned into lecturing and hasn’t looked back since. His passion for physical education stems from his own positive experiences in sports as a child, guided by supportive parents and fuelled by sibling rivalry. Despite initially envisioning a lifelong career in secondary school PE, Jordan found his calling in higher education, where he now strives to make a difference in shaping future educators.
Importance of Physical Education
Physical education isn’t just about fitness; it’s about fostering enjoyment, camaraderie, and personal growth. Jordan emphasises the transformative power of physical activity, citing the joy, fun, and satisfaction it brings to individuals. He highlights the shift in focus from solely promoting health to prioritising the holistic benefits of participation in sports and movement. Through his research and teaching, Jordan aims to instill a love for physical activity in students and empower them to lead healthier, happier lives.
Current Research
Jordan discusses his professional doctorate research, which focuses on integrating lifestyle sports into physical education through a meaningful teaching approach. By introducing non-traditional activities like parkour and street dance, Jordan seeks to broaden students’ perspectives on sports and promote inclusivity. Through action research conducted in local secondary schools, he examines the impact of these interventions on student engagement and motivation. With guidance from experienced supervisors, Jordan navigates the challenges of balancing research with a full-time job, all while preparing to share his findings with the academic community.
Exploring the Parkour Unit
Jordan introduces his journey into parkour education, initiated by a teacher training programme led by a prominent figure in the parkour community. He outlines the structure of the parkour unit, which spanned six weeks and comprised two lessons per week. The unit began with an exploration of fundamental parkour skills, gradually building complexity and incorporating concepts like balance, landing, rolling, vaults, hanging, swinging, and muscle-ups.
Integration of Meaningful PE Approach
Throughout the unit, Jordan applied a meaningful PE approach, emphasising student autonomy, goal setting, and reflection. He describe how students were empowered to take ownership of their learning, culminating in a final challenge where groups created Instagram reels showcasing their progress.
Data Collection and Analysis
Jordan discusses his comprehensive data collection methodology, including pre- and post-unit questionnaires, teacher observations, reflective journals, focus groups, and interviews. Statistical analysis revealed significant improvements in competence, fun, challenge, choice, overall meaning, and meaningful PE pedagogy among students participating in the parkour unit.
Challenges and Enablers
While the parkour unit demonstrated positive outcomes, Jordan acknowledges challenges such as teacher competence, funding limitations, and contextual barriers. He emphasises the importance of aligning teaching approaches with the school’s ethos and providing adequate support for teachers venturing into non-traditional activities.
Navigating PE Twitter
Jordan shares insights into the pros and cons of PE Twitter, cautioning against the pitfalls of misinformation, resource overload, and inappropriate practice sharing. He advocates for critical thinking and contextualisation when engaging with content on social media platforms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the episode highlights that physical education is more than just a subject—it’s a catalyst for personal growth, community building, and lifelong enjoyment. Through his dedication to innovative teaching practices and research, Jordan inspires educators to reimagine physical education and its potential to shape the lives of young learners. He advocates the transformative potential of meaningful PE in enhancing student engagement, learning outcomes, and teacher professional development. By leveraging innovative approaches like parkour in a supportive learning environment, educators can empower students to thrive both physically and emotionally.
Key Takeaways for Educators
Tips for meaningful PE
Prioritise student engagement and understanding
Embrace experimentation and resilience in trying new approaches
Prioritise self-care to maintain effectiveness in teaching.
About the Guest
Jordan Wintle is Associate Head of School for Education and Applied Science at the University of Gloucestershire
You can connect with Jordan directly via X at @jordanwintlePE
Listen and Connect
To listen to the full episode please follow these links to Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
If you would like to be a guest on the PE Insights Podcast please reach out by contacting us here or reach out to Nathan Walker via X at @NWalkerPE
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