Mathematics! At first, I thought Math was only about counting. Then Algebra was introduced, followed by Geometry, and then finally, Trigonometry. But it didn't end there. There are other branches such as Applied Math, Analysis, Statistics, Calculus, Logic, Set Theories, etc.
What's the point?
Well, I have been trying to make sense if the case for Science and Math could also be a case for Physical Education - you know, maybe we should create branches too.
Unlike any other academic disciplines, PE is unique because it is the only subject that involves the total psychomotor and affective domains in learning. However, PE has become one of the most overlooked subjects in schools.
In the Philippines, the word "lang" (only) has become a suffix to PE, thereby, hearing the expression "PE lang" most of the times in schools. Maybe, PE either has a reputation of being an easy A or being less academic.
For years I've been trying to figure out why people use lang when they describe PE. Then it hit me. It is not about the perceived difficulty or easiness or making PE less academic than any other subjects. Lang is to describe that PE is simple, singular, and without complexity. Physical Education is never perceived as complex as Math or Science. PE is practical while the rest needs a lot of cognition and thinking. PE is tangible while the rest could be abstract. PE is easy and simple and the fun element makes it appear that it doesn't make life complicated - but it makes life stress-free and simply happy. In my opinion, this is the main reason why there's "PE lang".
A Physical Educator would argue that PE should not be described this way. I, for one, have been fighting for this cause - for people to never look down on my profession because PE deserves a status similar to other academic subjects. However, it's undeniable that PE gets small credit in being an academic subject worldwide.
Does this mean we have to make PE a little bit more complex than how it is perceived today? No. This is not my point. I refuse to make PE much more complex than what it is today. I'm satisfied with its simplicity. But I refuse to accept the fact that its simplicity makes it look like it is not what it should be - an integral part of school curriculum.
A lot of factors affect why PE in the Philippines and around the world has been perceived inferior to other subjects. But I won't point fingers at anything or anyone. My life's work is to identify the problems and offer solutions as best as I can.
Today, PE has only one face - physical type of education. For this reason, I want to create several branches of PE like that of Science and Math. It may not appear fancy such as the names: Biology, Chemistry, or Physics; but at least dividing PE will make it more relevant to the learning experience of each learner. It may not be "branches" after all because we don't really have to create names like "a branch that study sports" or "a branch that study movements and rhythms". Of course, creating branches or different types of PE shouldn't just be for the purpose of creating to make it look good. Besides, there has to be bases in doing so. I believe in purpose and intention. For what reason do I want to create several Programs in PE?
If you are a PE teacher, you know that PE has many faces or appearances. The question is: what side of PE are you showing to your learners?
- Are you showing the competitive side of PE where learners undergo training to win competitions?
- The recreational part where learners are encouraged to seek fun in physical activities?
- The health and wellness part where learners are given physical activity options to be fit for life?
- The artistic part where movements are associated with rhythm and performing arts?
- The scientific and theoretical part where students need to learn science-related topics in PE?
- The aesthetic side where learners have to exercise and move for beauty and good outward appearance?
- The extreme part where learners seek adventure and challenge?
- The relaxation part where learners meditate and practice mindfulness?
- The adaptiveness of physical activities where modification of activities are made to fit into certain type of population?
- The leadership part where learners experience to belong to a team and get exposed to the meaning of teamwork and being a team player?
- The lifestyle part where learners are encouraged to develop healthy practices and avoid dangerous unhealthy habits
- The values formation part where physical activities and exercises are used to impact learners' attitudes and behaviours
- The life-saving part where learners value lives and learn techniques to save lives
One of the main issues in Physical Education is the idea that the one and only PE program that we offer to our learners is enough and it caters to all types. Yes, we may have divided our programs into several units/topics. But that doesn't solve the issue. There is no such thing as "one size fits all" in Physical Education.
For a second, this reminds me of my former student in Mandalay, Myanmar a few years ago. He has the biggest feet in the school. He always come to my class with a pair of flip flops. He reasoned out that he cannot find shoes that have his size. It affected his academics. I was certain it affected his entire life too when he dropped out.
A "one size fits all" programming in PE may have been seen effective by some schools. But it is not inclusive at all. There may be one, two, or half of the class struggling to find their best fit but many schools only offer one type of program in PE.
In conclusion, what if PE could become similar to Math or Science with several branches and focus of studies? What if schools create several programs in PE and change the "one size fits all" programming to "customise to fit all"? How will this be possible at all?
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