Sir, Can We Do a Practical Today? How Pasifika Students Conceptualise Physical Education

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the perspectives of secondary school Pasifika students and parents regarding subject choice and success within health and physical education (HPE). Pasifika students in New Zealand schools are under-represented in achievement statistics, and choose to take health and physical education in senior high school in disproportionate numbers (New Zealand Qualifications Authority, 2018; Fitzpatrick, 2013). Adding to this is a public perception that health education and physical education are ‘non-academic’ subjects, even though students can gain academic scholarships in these areas. Considering why large numbers of Pasifika youth choose HPE and perform academically is important. The study employed a Talanoa approach with young people and parents, a methodology that generated significant findings that need further investigation. The study incorporated two key theories: the work of French social theorist Pierre Bourdieu alongside a Pacific theory, the Va‘atele (Si’ilata, 2014). These frameworks enabled an analysis across both Western and Pacific world views. Findings include discussion of: subject selection and academic success; personal identity; relationships; and the importance of culturally responsive pedagogies. Each of these proved to be key enablers for these Pasifika students’ academic performance. Significantly, students identified common features between the field of HPE and the field of Pasifka Culture.