Intergenerational Touch in Physical Education: Immigrant Students' Perspectives

• In Event: Paper Session 1. Working With Diverse Student Populations: Bodies, Touch, and Physical Activity

Abstract

Physical contact in physical education (PE) is commonly regarded as necessary in western countries. However, due to recent refugee immigration trends in Europe, many classrooms have become more multicultural. For these students, physical contact in PE can be problematic, especially regarding physical contact between different genders. The aim here is to shed new light on the complex issue of physical contact by identifying how physical contact in PE is perceived in relation to the student’s culture, ethnicity and/or religion. The findings are analyzed through the lens of the didactic contract, and show that the students support physical contact if it is needed and has a good intention. It is however, complex and several factors are at stake.

Author

• Annica Caldeborg, Örebro University, Sweden