INTRODUCTORY DIALOGUES WITH ALAN PATRICK OVENS AND COMPLEX THINKING IN SCHOOL PHYSICAL EDUCATION

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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37497/colloquium.v1i1.53

Keywords:

Complexity theory, Complex thinking, Physical education

Abstract

This essay explores complexity theory and its application in Physical Education, with the aim of offering an overview of complex thinking and the understanding of complex systems in pedagogical practice, through the analysis of the works of Allan Patrick Ovens, which promotes theoretical and practice on the applicability of complexity theory in the training of Physical Education teachers. In Physical Education, this approach allows for a deeper understanding of educational characteristics, valuing the emergence, adaptation and interconnection of complex systems present in the school environment. This holistic and contextualized perspective on reductionist and linear views proves to be relevant in teacher training by promoting critical reflection on pedagogical practices and stimulating the development of creative and effective strategies to face the challenges inherent to the area. The methodology adopted consisted of a bibliometric review of international and national journals, selecting articles from Ovens that address complex thinking applied to Physical Education. Furthermore, three international articles were included to complement Ovens' ideas, focusing on topics such as teacher training, bibliometric analyzes on complex thinking in literature and the practical application of the complexity approach in school Physical Education classes. In conclusion, complexity theory offers a reflective and innovative approach to Physical Education, going beyond the limits of linearity and reductionism. Its application contributes to a broader and more analytical understanding of the contemporary educational environment, promoting a pedagogical practice that values ​​the emergence, adaptation and interconnection of the complex systems present in this area. Adopting this perspective opens the way for a more contextualized, critical and integrative Physical Education.

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References

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Published

2026-06-26

How to Cite

SOARES, Gisele da Silva; BORGES, Gustawo Lemos; RODRIGUES, Graciele Massoli; FILGUEIRAS, Isabel Porto. INTRODUCTORY DIALOGUES WITH ALAN PATRICK OVENS AND COMPLEX THINKING IN SCHOOL PHYSICAL EDUCATION . Colloquium: health and education, Mooca (SP), v. 5, n. 1, p. 1–20, 2026. DOI: 10.37497/colloquium.v1i1.53. Disponível em: https://colloquimhealtheducation.com.br/recs/article/view/53. Acesso em: 24 oct. 2026.

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