Globalization of PE

This article informs us technology is playing a vital role in unifying our world. The specific concept they were using was global link. This global link makes distances between foreign countries and our backyard seem minimal. It discusses globalization and that it is key for 21st century learners to understand how to interact with those of different cultures. According to Bomna, Boswell and Yoon (2015), “understanding cultural differences and developing abilities to respond appropriately have become critical to the success of students.” One student commented on his daily life after this experience,”I feel comfortable interacting with other people from other countries after this (global) link. I can educate my children on the things they do that are very similar to what children do miles away on a whole other continent (p. 374).

The authors performed a study with intentions designed to examine the development of intercultural competence. They connected physical education (PE) graduate students with Korean students through video conferencing, emailing, and on-line translators. They found four themes through their research: openness to other cultures, expanding cultural knowledge clarifying cultural views and accommodating behaviors. 

21st century learners have the world at their finger-tips. It makes the world a small place to live, but what is missing here is globalization. Just because I can view our existence through the computer does not mean I have valuable interactions with those that make up this planet. In PE technology can be scary. How do I use these tools efficiently and effectively? How do I engage students in something meaningful? This global link, video chat and idea of intercultural competence can be a very valuable concept to use specifically in my classroom. It is something that can bridge cultural differences. I think it would be an interesting project for my students to connect over video with another country and culture. Ideas are flowing, but one that seems exciting now involves students teaching PE specific games of our culture (kickball, four-square, flag football, maybe let the kids decide) to those of another culture. Hopefully they could return the favor as well. 

Bowman, K., Boswell, B., & Seok, Y. (2013). Developing intercultural competence through global link experiences in       physical education. Physical Education & Sport Pedagogy, 20(4), 366-38. doi:10.1080/17408989.2013.837441

Read the article here.