Physical Education teachers (Re)presentation in the movies

Abstract

Aim: To analyze the (re)presentation of PE teachers in the movies. Taking into account McCullick, Belcher, Hardin & Hardin’s work (2003), based on 18 films produced in the USA between 1990-2000, the sample is broadened (contexts, countries, movie’s features) and conclusions are compared. Method: Content analysis reproducing to a great extent the process followed by the mentioned study. Conclusions: One big agreement and many discrepancies with the reference article. The agreement refers to the confusing contexts, idiosyncrasies and identities of PE teachers and coaches so the differences between those figures are indecipherable. Discrepancies revolve around: i) PE teachers’ lack of pedagogical ability in comparison with others; ii) the idea that PE teachers, by action or omission, humiliate and bully their pupils: although such characterization is sometimes evident, that’s not always the case and, furthermore, PE teachers seem to be as incompetent and insensitive in dealing with bullying as those of other subjects; and iii) about the general characterization of female PE teachers as “butch lesbians”, and their male counterparts as “hormone-raging heterosexuals” and ill-educated “buffoons”.