title: Modified Delphi investigation of motor development and learning in physical education teacher education.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  As the scope of motor development and learning knowledge has successfully broadened over the years, there is an increased need to identify the content and learning experiences that are essential in preparing preservice physical educators. The purpose of this study was to generate expert consensus regarding the most critical motor development and learning competencies that prospective physical educators need to learn within the physical education teacher education (PETE) curriculum and to identify learning environments and instructional methods for delivering core knowledge.
  
  
  METHODS
  The study employed a 2-round, modified Delphi procedure involving the repeated circulation of a questionnaire to a panel of motor development specialists, motor learning specialists, teacher educators, and K-12 physical education teachers. Panel members rated an initial list of theoretical and applied motor development and learning competencies derived from various curricular guidelines and textbook sources. An open-response question was incorporated into the 2nd round asking panel members to recommend specific instructional methods and settings for delivering core motor development and learning content to prospective physical educators within the PETE curriculum.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Expert consensus determined that 64 out of the initial 159 motor development and learning competencies were critical in preparing preservice physical educators. Early field experiences and peer practice in a variety of settings were recommended by panelists for delivering the identified competencies.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The Discussion section represents an important link between the motor development and learning body of knowledge and physical education teachers' role in promoting skillful movement, physical activity, and fitness among youth in the school setting.
authors.affiliation: a West Virginia University.
authors.forename: Susan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Ross
authors.forename: Amanda
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Metcalf
authors.forename: Sean M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Bulger
authors.forename: Lynn D
authors.initials: LD
authors.lastname: Housner
mesh_terms: D003479:Curriculum; D003697:Delphi Technique; D005178:Faculty; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D009043:Motor Activity; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000592:standards*; D011361:Professional Competence
keywords: Delphi method; motor behavior; teacher preparation