Implementing Action Research in Physical Education: A Guide for Physical Educators

AbstractThe responsibilities of a general physical educator can be challenging and at times overwhelming. Whether teaching a full day of general physical education, or inclusive physical education classes that include a student or multiple students with disabilities, the expectation is that all students will be provided age and developmentally appropriate curriculum based on continuous data collection and reflection. Adams et al. (in-press) identified an action research model for physical educators that encompasses the following teaching behaviors: (a) observation, (b) data collection, (c) designing interventions, (d) analyzing data, (e) reporting data, and (f) reflection of data. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how this action research model can be easily and systematically implemented throughout the school year to help determine and support student learning and behavior. Disclosure StatementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).Additional informationNotes on contributorsDavid AdamsDavid Adams (David.adams@humboldt.edu) is a faculty member in the School of Applied Health at Cal Poly Humboldt University in Arcata, CA.Melissa BittnerMelissa Bittner is a faculty member in the Department of Kinesiology at Cal State University in Long Beach, CA.Lisa Silliman-FrenchLisa Silliman-French is a Professor Emerita in the Department of Kinesiology at Texas Woman’s University in Denton, TX.Barry LavayBarry Lavay is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Kinesiology at Cal State University in Long Beach, CA.