Physical Literacy across the World

Physical Literacy across the World records the progress of the concept of physical literacy over the last decade. It examines developments, issues and controversies in physical literacy studies, and looks at how the concept has been implemented around the world. Contributions from practitioners and researchers across the world tell unique stories of the way physical literacy is changing perceptions of physical activity through research and the generation of scholarly writing, the creation of new national and local policies, and the development of partnerships with a range of professions. The book argues that physical literacy has value beyond formal education, such as in occupational and recreational settings, as well as for early years children and older people, and shows how life story methods can explain our physical literacy journeys. At root, it sets out a case for the significance and value of physical literacy as making a notable contribution to human flourishing. This is important reading for anyone with an interest in physical activity, health and well-being, sport studies, physical education, or the philosophy related to physical activity.

Margaret Whitehead is Visiting Professor at the University of Bedfordshire, UK.

Part I: Physical Literacy Moving Forward, 1. Overview and Recent Developments in Physical Literacy, 2. Definition of Physical Literacy - Developments and Issues, 3. Aspects of Physical Literacy - Clarification and Discussion With Particular Reference to the Physical Domain, 4. In Support of Physical Literacy Throughout Life, 5. What Does Physical Literacy Look Like? Overarching Principles and Specific Descriptions, 6. Charting the Physical Literacy Journey, Part II: International Perspectives on Physical Literacy, 7. Introduction to International Perspectives on Physical Literacy, 8. A Brief History of Physical Literacy in Australia, 9. Physical Literacy in Canada, 10. Perspectives on Physical Literacy in Continental Europe, 11. Physical Literacy in India, 12. Aotearoa/New Zealand's Physical Literacy Journey, 13. Physical and Food Literacy: A Holistic Approach to Public Health in Scotland, 14. Physical Literacy in the United States of America, 15. Physical Literacy Development in Wales, 16. Reflection on International Perspectives, Part III: Physical Literacy - Establishing Significance and Looking Ahead, 17. Physical Literacy as a Journey, 18. Human Flourishing and Physical Literacy, 19. Human Flourishing, Human Nature and Physical Literacy, 20. The Significance of Physical Literacy in Human Life, Conclusions and the Way Ahead