A descriptive analysis of research methods classes in departments of kinesiology and physical education in the United States.

Full Abstract

Research training takes many forms and is generally a part of graduate education. A common and important aspect of research training is the introductory research methods class offered by many departments. The purpose of this study was to examine the content, process, and instructors of introductory research methods classes in departments of kinesiology and physical education in the United States. A survey was designed and extensively pilot tested. The sample was selected from all departments offering graduate degrees in the United States. Among the many results, the data indicate that one book was required reading in more than half the classes and class size averaged about 19 students. A number of objectives were statedfor most classes, with understanding research, applying research to professional situations, critiquing the research literature, and planning research indicated most often. Quantitative design and analysis topics were emphasized more strongly than qualitative design and analysis topics. Professors indicated that more than half the class time was spent lecturing and most grades were based on exams, preparation of a research proposal, and regular assignments. The professors were relatively experienced, had a variety ofspecialty areas, and were reasonably productive researchers. The trends suggest that alternative research methodologies have not been quickly added to the research methods curriculum.

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Author information

Author/s: Silverman, Stephen (S); Keating, Xiaofen Deng (XD);

Affiliation: Department of Health and Behavior Studies at Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA. ss928(-atsign-)columbia.edu

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article

Journal: Research quarterly for exercise and sport (Res Q Exerc Sport), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2002-Mar; vol 73 (issue 1) : pp 1-9

Dates: Created 2002/04/02; Completed 2002/10/03; Revised 2004/11/17;

PMID: 11926478, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 11/6/2008)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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