Learning the difference: on-the-job training of PE teachers, and its effect on upper secondary students

Abstract

Handling differences may be seen as a key qualification in a complex and plural society. Intercultural learning is a conception which emphasizes the importance of being aware of and accepting differences. Physical Education [PE] may be particularly advantageous in learning to deal with differences and to promote intercultural learning in schools. In the mid-1990ies, Erdmann & Giess-Stüber of the German Sport University in Cologne started to develop a program, which was later labeled “Intercultural Movement Education” (Erdmann, 1999a). In 2004, the University of Freiburg received support from the European Union [EU] for a project titled; “The Development of Intercultural Competence through Sports in an expanding EU” (Giess-Stüber & Blecking, 2008). Related to this project, Grimminger (2009) has developed a PE teacher training program which has been carried out and tested in German schools. This project has adapted the teacher training program to Norwegian conditions and implemented it in upper secondary schools. The main research question for this study is: Did the training program have the intended effect among students?