About PE Science

PE Science is dedicated to advancing research in physical education and activity programming. Our work is carried out in the Pedagogical Kinesiology Research Laboratory (PK Lab) at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG). The lab focuses on studying physical education curriculum, physical activity programs, and program evaluation, providing a hub for groundbreaking research supported by state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.

At PE Science, we aim to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in physical education. Our comprehensive approach encompasses various aspects of pedagogical kinesiology, ensuring that our research is both innovative and impactful.

Our Mission:

Our mission is to enhance the quality of physical education through rigorous research, contributing to the development of effective physical activity programs that benefit both educators and students. By integrating cutting-edge technology and collaborative efforts, we strive to push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of physical education.

Key Features of PE Science:

Innovative Research Facilities: The PK Lab is equipped with an array of advanced tools to support our research endeavors:

  • Video/Audio Recording Devices: Essential for capturing detailed data during physical activity sessions.

  • Accelerometers and Heart Rate Monitors: Used to measure physiological intensity and monitor physical activity levels accurately.

  • Digital Devices for Instructional Materials: Facilitate the creation of engaging and educational content for physical education programs.

  • Laptops and Centralized Data Computer: Enable efficient data collection, processing, and analysis, ensuring high-quality research outputs.

Comprehensive Student Resources: The PK Lab is designed to support the academic and research needs of graduate students:

  • Graduate Student Office/Conference Room: Provides a dedicated space for students to work on their research projects and collaborate with peers and faculty.

  • Data Workroom and Secure Data Storage Rooms: Ensure that all research data is securely stored and easily accessible for analysis.

Collaborative Environment: The PK Lab fosters a rich collaborative atmosphere, bringing together faculty, graduate students, and international scholars to work on diverse research projects:

  • Faculty: Renowned experts in physical education who guide and mentor students, contributing their extensive knowledge and experience to the research process.

  • Graduate Students: Actively engaged in leading and supporting various research projects, developing their skills and expertise.

  • International Scholars: Visiting scholars from around the world bring unique perspectives and enhance the global relevance of our research.

Our collaborative efforts have resulted in numerous influential studies, impacting physical education practices and policies worldwide.

Research Initiatives:

Our research is supported by grants from prestigious organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Department of Education. These studies have led to significant advancements in the field of physical education, including:

  • Curriculum Value Orientation Study (1989-ongoing): Examines how curriculum design impacts student learning and engagement.

  • Science of Essential Balance (2018-2023): Investigates the integration of physical education with scientific principles to promote health and wellness.

  • Conflict Transformation through Health & Physical Education (2019-2020): Explores the role of physical education in resolving conflicts and promoting social-emotional learning.

These initiatives have contributed to the publication of over 150 research articles, demonstrating the impact and importance of our work in advancing physical education.

Impact on Physical Education:

The research conducted at PE Science has significantly influenced the field of physical education by:

  • Enhancing Curriculum Design: Providing evidence-based insights to develop more effective and engaging physical education curricula.

  • Promoting Physical Activity: Identifying strategies to increase student motivation and participation in physical activities.

  • Supporting Teacher Development: Offering professional development opportunities for physical education teachers, helping them to implement best practices in their classrooms.

Through our dedicated research efforts, PE Science continues to shape the future of physical education, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of educators and students alike.