Physical education in British universities: The search for status

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article takes a case-study approach to review physical education and related areas in the university context. It suggests that the evidence from this subject area can provide one possible model for studying change in other subjects with a formerly practical base. From this study, it was found that strong leadership skills, political acumen and a research profile have helped to secure a new status for the subject area. The subject now encompasses aspects, for example, of physical education, sport, recreation, leisure and exercise science. With subject rationalisation, and increasing selectivity for research contracts, some institutions, at least, are surviving. The issue of conflicting roles for staff between the academic and the practical areas has still to be resolved, and would require a further study.