Ethnicity and Conflict in Physical Education

Abstract

There has been little research dealing with the issues of teaching ethnic minority groups in physical education (PE), in particular that which takes the perceptions of teachers and their pupils as the focal point to examine the issues and conflicts. This research takes a social action perspective by studying Muslim children in a northern comprehensive school. The areas of conflict are highlighted, such as PE kit, showers, Ramadan and extra‐curricular activities, through the pupils’ perceptions. This leads to a discussion on the clash of values between the PE teachers with their traditional values of PE and the Muslim cultural values. In particular it points out the dilemma of following policies of equality of opportunity at the same time as multicultural and anti‐racist ones in PE, the lack of awareness of Muslim values and feelings on behalf of the PE teachers; and the way the child is caught between the two cultures and values. The research points to the need for better preparation of teachers, in‐service education and training, anti‐racist policies and links with the community at the educationist's level, and the dilemma posed by empowerment at the political level. The discussion locates the issues in PE in the wider education and societal debate of different cultures.