Reclaiming Space, Revisioning the Body: The Quest for Gender-Sensitive Physical Education

Abstract

Perceived physical differences and abilities between boys and girls, especially in adolescence, have traditionally formed the bedrock upon which school physical education programs are constructed. I explore the pursuit of equal opportunity for girls in school physical education through liberal reform strategies, such as antidiscrimination legislation and coeducational initiatives. Noting that equal access has not ensured equal participation, I address the ways in which unequal power relations between genders have pervaded the structure, organization, and language of physical education in the high school. In gender-sensitive perspective, patterns of discrimination themselves determine what action to take in eliminating bias. British Columbia's new Physical Education Curriculum 2000 is offered as a case study. This curriculum, centered on the concept of active living, is examined for its potential in fostering gender-sensitive physical education, especially in reclaiming girls' space and encouraging a revisioning of female bodies as self-directed, strong, and skilled.