Physical Education

This course provides an introduction to the study of psychology as it relates to human behavior and performance in sport settings. It examines how practice and competition environments give rise to psychological states (e.g., motivation, anxiety, fatigue) that impact on motor learning, visuo-motor control and sport performance. It reviews evidence for the use of several psychological skills (e.g., arousal regulation, attention control, goal-setting, imagery, thought control) and apply models of psychological skills training to design evidence-based interventions that aim to improve performance in individual athletes and sport teams.

This course helps solve the intertwined mystery of what it is that makes us choose to adopt a physically inactive and sedentary lifestyle, when we know the negative health impacts of it. To unfold the box of this enigma, the course first provides understanding of the inter-disciplinary nature of exercise and physical activity determinants. Through a series of themed lectures, it explores together how individuals’ participation in exercise and physical activity is determined not only by personal factors, but also by contextual, cultural, and environmental factors. "Be Fit! Be Active!" is a course that radically changes your understanding of the essence of bodily movement. It helps not only acquire a strong theoretical background, but also engagement in hands-on tasks and experience. It includes practical, useful projects, and the opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of real-world interventions. Students learn in-depth about the fundamental techniques needed to design programs and policies aimed at increasing physical activity and well-being.

This course examines alternative sport and games young people play in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally. It explores a range of non-traditional and non-competitive physical activities. It reflects on the socio-cultural dimensions of these types of physical activities, including an examination of how alternative sport enables young people to learn, play, communicate, create, express themselves, and belong.

This course examines the place and significance of sport in Australia as a form of social education. It looks at both historical and contemporary issues related to the growing tensions between sport’s traditional role as a form of moral education and the emergence of sport as a commercial commodity. It explores the changing definitions of sport and the purpose sport serves in contemporary society. This analysis of sport education and community sport is informed by an investigation of the growing role and responsibilities of the media in shaping sports. It will include topics such as elite sport versus sport for all, health and participation rates, social welfare, gender, violence, race and ethnicity. It will focus on current events in sport and how these issues impact on teaching and learning.

This course examines quality of life through the study of leisure, life, and happiness in contemporary society. Students explore classical and contemporary theories, research findings, and everyday experiences to understand how leisure contributes to individual well-being and life satisfaction. While the primary focus is on personal meaning-making, the course also introduces a life-course perspective, encouraging students to consider how leisure, work, and happiness may change across different stages of life. Through lectures, discussions, presentations, and reflective assignments, students develop a deeper understanding of leisure as a key component of a meaningful and balanced life. Active participation and several outside assignments are required. 

This physical education course introduces the field of exercise science and explores it in relation to areas of health promotion. The course also provides a unique opportunity for students to test a career choice in fields related to health, exercise, and well-being through lectures from experts from different areas of science. This course is a foundational exploration of essential concepts and theories related to fostering holistic well-being, encompassing both physical and mental dimensions. Emphasizing a comprehensive approach to health, the curriculum delves into diverse strategies for enhancing and sustaining well-being, including exercise, lifestyle management encompassing aspects like sleep, nutrition, and stress. 

Topics include Foundations of health and exercise science; Anatomy and physiology for exercise science; Exercise prescription and programming; Yoga experience; Nutrition, hydration, and exercise: Fundamental of nutrition, Energy balance, Nutrient timing, Dietary supplements; Stress, the effects of stress, and stress reduction; Psychology of physical activity and exercise. 

Students should expect to create and group-lead a stress-reduction class, and produce and present a final project.