Another Decade of Qualitative Research in the Journal of Teaching in Physical Education

Abstract

Background: Over the past several decades, scholars have regularly reviewed qualitative research published in the Journal of Teaching in Physical Education, among other outlets, to understand the developing role of qualitative methods in physical education and sport pedagogy. In this review, the authors present a descriptive and thematic analysis of qualitative research articles published between 2009 and 2019, extending previous reviews. Methods: A total of 137 empirical articles were published that included a qualitative component (38.48%). This included purely qualitative studies (28.37%) as well as those using mixed methods (10.11%). Results: Descriptive results include analyses of article classifications, authorship, participants, theoretical/conceptual frameworks, qualitative methodologies, data collection methods, and data analysis and trustworthiness strategies. Inductive analysis of the 137 qualitative containing articles resulted in six themes and corresponding subthemes of research foci. Conclusions: Suggestions for future submissions to the Journal of Teaching in Physical Education are also presented.