ABSTRACT
In this chapter we discuss the use of student-centred research as a classroombased pedagogical technique for exploring young people's physical education and sporting experiences. According to Arnold (1985), physical education can be understood as a subject that is not merely the doing of physical activity. Indeed, Arnold (1985) believes students can learn ‘in’, ‘about’ and ‘through’ physical education. This chapter draws on this understanding of physical education to illustrate how students can learn ‘about’ physical education by participating in classroom-based, student-centred research. Initially, we discuss the use of student-centred research with young disabled people. Given the many organisations that now claim to support and develop opportunities for these young people (Department of Culture, Media and Sport 2001; English Federation of Disability Sport 1999) and the increasing recognition of the importance of personal autonomy and empowerment (Children and Young Peoples Unit 2001), it is appropriate that when we explore physical education and sporting experiences we include young people within the process. We review a number of examples of student-centred approaches that have been used. We then consider the usefulness of student-centred research for researchers, school staff and students. Finally, we explore the relevance and possibilities of the pedagogic principles underpinning student-centred research for other groups of young people in the context of physical education.
