Understanding Student Engagement with Gymnastics

This study examines the engagement of two secondary school students participating in a compulsory gymnastics unit within a physical education class. Using Dewey''s notions of engagement, interest, occupation and purpose, the student experience has been considered. An important element of the outcome has been the consideration of the occupations of the student-gymnast and gymnast- student. These arise as important factors in the planning and teaching of secondary school gymnastics.