Abstract

The need for critical pedagogy to be used in physical education has created significant discussion and debate over the last decade. While many scholars advocate for critical pedagogy, there is concern that there is a lack of practical applications. In New Zealand, recent neo-liberal economic imperatives have necessitated the complete revision of the school curriculum. The curriculum revision was designed to ensure that New Zealand was economically competitive on the world stage. In revising the physical education curriculum, the curriculum writers of this document took a socio-critical stance and have produced a document, mandated by the state that advocates for critical pedagogy. This paper explores critical pedagogy within New Zealand's physical education context including the curriculum and discusses how physical education in New Zealand is attempting to address the challenge of engaging in critical pedagogical praxis. Verf.-Referat