A Critical Sociological Analysis of AI in Physical Education

About the Project

We are looking for highly motivated and dedicated PhD candidates who are interested in exploring AI and Physical Education. As a candidate, you will have the opportunity to conduct a PhD project in the fields of Sports Pedagogy and Physical Education, and contribute to the body of literature in these areas.

This PhD project examines the social, pedagogical and interactional disruptions brought about by the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in school Physical Education (PE) environments. The research addresses the pros and cons of AI-driven curricula from a critical sociological perspective, analysing how datafication and digital-focused activities impact the subjective experiences of both teachers and learners in the PE setting. Ultimately, the project provides a nuanced critique of how AI-driven teaching and learning sessions shift the definitions of physical activity and the traditional values of PE, questioning what it means to be physically educated in an algorithmic age.

Ideal candidates for this project may have a background in Sport Pedagogy/Physical Education, Sociology (of Sport) or related fields, with experience in using qualitative research methods. The School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences values diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. In the School’s diverse community where we believe in integration and support for everyone with different abilities, sexual orientations, ethnicity, race, faith and gender, you will actively uphold and respect these values.

This project is not associated with funding from the University of Birmingham. Applicants will need to obtain their own scholarship or other financial support to cover tuition fees and living costs. All interested candidates MUST contact the lead supervisor of this project by email, including a current CV and research proposal BEFORE submitting a formal application.

Candidates who are interested in this project are kindly required to submit the following documents, directly to Dr Yoon Jin Kim (y.j.kim.1@bham.ac.uk).

1. Your CV, which highlights your educational qualifications and grades, and your (previous) experiences relevant to your PhD study.
2. A research proposal (1,200-1,500 words), which should include a literature review, a clear research aim and research questions, a theoretical framework, methodology, significance/implications of the study and a reference list.