Unit outline_

EDHP4008: Future Directions in HPE

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

This unit of study is a forward-looking unit that aims to expand students' perspectives on the evolving field of Health and Physical Education (HPE). Moving beyond conventional curriculum boundaries, it delves into emerging trends, innovations, and global challenges facing HPE today. This unit empowers students to apply their background knowledge in HPE to critically analyse and engage in meaningful discussions on these topics. Through interactive and thought-provoking sessions, students will explore the potential future directions of HPE, equipping themselves with the insight and foresight needed to lead and innovate in their future professional endeavours.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Education
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
EDHP3003 and EDHP4002
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

3 years of undergraduate study in Health and Physical Education

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Kelly Freebody, kelly.freebody@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Written work Major Essay
The individual essay enables students to explore a self-selected future issue in HPE in depth.
50% Week 05
Due date: 05 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 19 Sep 2025
3000wd AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Creative work group assignment Video Documentary
Building upon the individual research and analysis conducted in the 3000-word essay, the 10-minute video documentary, created in pairs, encourages students to move from theoretical understanding to the application of knowledge.
50% Week 07
Due date: 19 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 03 Oct 2025
10min (3000wd equivalent) AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
group assignment = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

  • Essay: The individual essay enables students to explore a self-selected future issue in HPE in depth.
  • Documentary: Thsi assessmen encourages students to move from theoretical understanding to the application of knowledge.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

Result Mark range Description
High distinction 85 - 100 Work of an exceptional standard.
Distinction 75 - 84 Work of a very high standard.
Credit 65 - 74 Work of a good standard.
Pass 50 - 64 Work of an an acceptable standard.
Fail 0 - 49 When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

 

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date: Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date. After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Issues in HPE Lecture and tutorial (3 hr) LO2 LO4 LO5
Week 02 Issues in HPE Lecture and tutorial (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 03 Issues in HPE Lecture and tutorial (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 04 Issues in HPE Lecture and tutorial (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 05 Issues in HPE Lecture and tutorial (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 06 Issues in HPE Lecture and tutorial (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 07 Issues in HPE Lecture and tutorial (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 08 Issues in HPE - Documentary showing Lecture and tutorial (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5

Attendance and class requirements

The Sydney School of Education and Social Work requires attendance of at least 90 percent of all seminars, workshops or lectures. Where a student is unable to attend at the required rate evidence of illness or misadventure may be required and the student may be required to undertake extra work. Students should discuss the circumstances of their absence(s) with the co-ordinator of the unit of study. Further details are provided in the School canvas site: https://canvas.sydney.edu.au/courses/13426

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Borgen, J. S., Hallås, B. O., Løndal, K., Moen, K. M., & Gjølme, E. G. (2020). Problems created by the (un)clear boundaries between physical education and physical activity health initiatives in schools. Sport, Education and Society, 26(3), 239–252. https://doi.org/10.1080/13573322.2020.1722090

Cale, L. (2023). Physical Education: At the Centre of Physical Activity Promotion in Schools. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(11), 6033. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20116033

Cruickshank, V., Mainsbridge, C., Nash, R. et al. ‘It’s not a priority’: Australian generalist classroom teacher experiences of teaching the Health Education component of Health and Physical Education. Curric Perspect 43, 115–125 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41297-023-00204-z

Griggs, G., & Randall, V. (2025). Contemporary Issues in Primary Physical Education. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003473817

Hill, J., Walton-Fisette, J. L., Flemons, M., Philpot, R., Sutherland, S., Phillips, S., … Ovens, A. (2022). Social justice knowledge construction among physical education teacher educators: the value of personal, professional, and educational experiences. Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy, 29(5), 439–451. https://doi.org/10.1080/17408989.2022.2123463

Jenny, S., & Krause, J., & Armstrong, T. (2021). Technology for Physical Educators, Health Educators, and Coaches. Human Kinetics Publishers

Killian, C. M., Marttinen, R., Howley, D., Sargent, J., & Jones, E. M. (2023). “Knock, Knock … Who’s There?” ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence-Powered Large Language Models: Reflections on Potential Impacts Within Health and Physical Education Teacher Education. Journal of Teaching in Physical Education, 42(3), 385-389. Retrieved Jul 9, 2025, from https://doi.org/10.1123/jtpe.2023-0058

Kirk, D, (2018) Physical education-as-health promotion : recent developments and future issues. Education and Health, 36 (3). pp. 70-75. ISSN 2049-3665

O’Dea, J. A., & ProQuest. (2012). Current issues and controversies in school and community health, sport and physical education. Nova Science Publishers, Inc.

Petry, K., & Jong, J. de (Eds.). (2022). Education in sport and physical activity : future directions and global perspectives (First edition.). Routledge.

Stidder, G. (2022). TEACHING PHYSICAL EDUCATION contemporary issues for teachers, educators and students. ROUTLEDGE. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003254348

Williams, J., Davies, M.J., SueSee, B. et al. (2022) Teachers’ experiences of teaching the Australian Health and Physical Education Health Benefits of Physical Activity curriculum and the need for greater reality congruence. Curric Perspect 42, 27–37.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Actively demonstrate an in-depth understanding of contemporary issues and future challenges in HPE.
  • LO2. Apply critical thinking and analytical skills to identify and address emerging trends in HPE.
  • LO3. Reflectively use learned skills to adapt and innovate professional practice, responding to changing educational and societal needs.
  • LO4. Critically evaluate and integrate diverse research sources to effectively address challenges in HPE.
  • LO5. Communicate and advocate for innovative HPE practices and policies effectively across diverse audiences.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes Competency standards
LO1
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate Level – UG and MTeach) - AITSL
2.1.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concepts, substance and structure of the content and teaching strategies of the teaching area.
LO2
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate Level – UG and MTeach) - AITSL
2.2.1. (Graduate) Organise content into an effective learning and teaching sequence.
LO3
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate Level – UG and MTeach) - AITSL
2.1.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concepts, substance and structure of the content and teaching strategies of the teaching area.
2.2.1. (Graduate) Organise content into an effective learning and teaching sequence.
LO4
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate Level – UG and MTeach) - AITSL
2.1.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concepts, substance and structure of the content and teaching strategies of the teaching area.
LO5
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate Level – UG and MTeach) - AITSL
7.4.1. (Graduate) Understand the role of external professionals and community representatives in broadening teachers’ professional knowledge and practice.
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate Level – UG and MTeach) -
Competency code Taught, Practiced or Assessed Competency standard
2.1.1 A T P (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concepts, substance and structure of the content and teaching strategies of the teaching area.
2.2.1 A T P (Graduate) Organise content into an effective learning and teaching sequence.
7.4.1 A T P (Graduate) Understand the role of external professionals and community representatives in broadening teachers’ professional knowledge and practice.

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

The unit will be reviewed each year and appropriate modifications made.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.