John Dewey, subject purposes and schools of tomorrow: A centennial reappraisal of the educational contribution of physical education

Abstract

This historically-themed critical paper reappraises selective progressive education writings by John Dewey in relation to two questions: firstly, how was physical education organised and taught in the Gary Schools, a programme Dewey widely praised in Schools of Tomorrow and secondly, how might the educational aspirations of Dewey benefit current subject purposes in physical education. This exercise highlights points of disconnection between the ideas of Dewey and areas of practice in the Gary Schools and the modest engagement Dewey's theorizing has had in informing the educational contribution of physical education over the last century. Both points are problematic in pursuing progressive education agendas and the latter point highlights the continuing need for a more convincing educational account of physical education to be advanced. The paper concludes by arguing for a Deweyan and Merleau-Pontian informed account of physical education which is primed by embodied learning and social and moral development.

A major review of stakeholder perspectives on the purposes of primary physical education

“…Certainly, the focus on 'skills' themselves was a prevalent pattern and it could be argued that this focus carries implications for how other purposes are or are not addressed (Thorburn, 2018), and for the types of purposes that are privileged. to develop socio-critical consciousness were largely absent.…”

“…Within this, however, we note the absence in recognising how physical education can support learning cognitive skills. Certainly, the focus on ‘skills’ themselves was a prevalent pattern and it could be argued that this focus carries implications for how other purposes are or are not addressed (Thorburn, 2018), and for the types of purposes that are privileged. For example, what we see as legitimate purposes of primary physical education expressed elsewhere, such as learning to value the cultural role movement plays in societies (Penney and Dinan Thompson, 2018) or to develop socio-critical consciousness, were largely absent.…”

The Effectiveness of Using the Lecture Method at SMK Negeri 1 Parepare

“…Today's development requires quality human resources so that they are able to compete with other developed countries today. Education has a very important role in creating quality human resources (Mazlan, Redzuan, & Bakar, 2014;Morin, Robert, & Gabora, 2018;Morineau, Meineri, & Chapelain, 2017;Thorburn, 2018;Tirthali, 2012). Quality education will affect progress in various fields.…”

Multiple Intelligences and Physical Education Curriculum: Application and Reflection of Every Education Level in Indonesia

“…Theoretical Framework Physical Education Physical Education is an important part in education (Dacica, 2015(Dacica, : 1242. Because it gives a major contribution for student (Thorburn, 2018). Physical education is also an integral part in teaching and learning that contribute internationally minded students and effective lifelong learners (IB Curriculum).…”