Curriculum refers to a range of educational
experiences, planned and unplanned, associated with student learning. Content
is only part of the educational experiences. Physical education is
distinguishable from other curricular areas by its focus on the body and
movement, seeking to build on previously learned movement skills through
participation in a diverse range of physical-activity related experiences. The
physical education curriculum is concerned with instilling a desire for, and
encouraging lifelong involvement in, physical activity. Most physical education
curriculum constitute a rationale, aims, objectives, areas of study / range of
practical activities (e.g., dance, games), learning outcomes and assessing
student learning, hoping to produce ‘physically-educated’ young people. There
is consensus that the physical education curriculum applies a holistic approach
to the concept of physical activity for school-aged students, providing
opportunities to;
Ø enhance
physical, mental, emotional and social development
Ø develop
physical creativity, competence and confidence to perform a variety of physical
activities
Ø examine
human movement from different key perspectives
Ø work as
individuals, with partners, in groups and as part of a team, in both competitive
and non-competitive situations
Ø encourage
an appreciation of physical activities and promote positive attitudes towards
establishing and sustaining an active and healthy lifestyle