Curriculum Work in Physical Education: Beyond the Objectives Approach?

Objectives are widely used in physical education curriculum work, though the effectiveness of their use varies. Specific and behavioral objectives continue to be advocated by physical education curriculum writers despite many wide-ranging criticisms. A particular criticism is that objectives trivialize educational processes and celebrate convergent learning outcomes. In this essay, a range of advocacies on how best to approach physical education curriculum work is reviewed. A number of limitations of the objectives approach are identified. These limitations are highlighted through a review of literature and through a case study, which examines some of the practical consequences of institutionalizing an objectives approach. It is suggested that the notion of curriculum work as craft presents an alternative to the use of objectives. Curriculum work as craft involves systematic and reflective processes promoting individuality and personal involvement in teaching and learning. This approach also creates the possibility of divergent learning outcomes.