Not for Free! An Analysis of Two Digital Tools Recommended as Learning Resources for Physical Education in Upper Secondary Schools in Denmark

Abstract

ABSTRACT In today’s classrooms, digital technologies and digital media enable an unlimited number of learning resources. Digital tools are one type of digital technology used in pedagogical settings. By digital tools we mean software that is not produced for educational purposes, but which may be used to support learning. Using theoretical concepts from Basil Bernstein and analytical tools from Critical Discourse Studies, the paper provides an in-depth critical analysis of two digital tools that are free of charge and recommended for teaching Physical Education in upper secondary schools in Denmark. The main intention is to discuss the educational problems related to the use of digital tools as learning resources and especially to challenge the idea that they are “for free”.