Review of Research on Teaching in Physical Education: Two Decades of Progress

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify, categorize, and analyze published peer reviewed research on teaching in physical education (RTPE) between July-1994 and December 2015. Methods: An exhaustive search was conducted on three databases (ERIC, PE Index, and Web of Science) which produced 18,966 abstracts that were reduced to 1,023 articles that fit inclusion criteria through a review of abstracts and titles, and a second review of full papers. Articles were coded independently for numerous aspects of the research method by three coders with multiple checks for interobserver agreement all of which were above 0.85 IOA. Results: There was a great increase in the number of articles, methodological diversity, and research focus from a previous analysis. Research was published in 183 journals and by researchers in 45 countries. Strengths and weaknesses were identified in the published research. Conclusion: The RTPE research has grown greatly and the field has matured.