Abstract

A mixed-methods study was used to determine if an online, mastery-based learning resource was successful in improving content knowledge and retention of critical elements and developmental stages of 16 fundamental movement skills (FMS); a secondary purpose was to determine participant perceptions of their experience with the online resource. Participants (N = 323; motor development (MD) = 94; movement education (ME) = 124; elementary physical education (EPE) = 105) were Teacher Candidates (TCs) in a Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) Program. Pre- and post-survey data, and pre-, post-, and retention test scores were used to evaluate the program's effectiveness. Paired samples t-tests indicated higher post-test scores for MD (Δ37.23, p < .001, d = 2.32) and ME (Δ32.12, p < .001, d = 1.72). Results from a one-way ANOVA indicated significant improvement and retention of test scores over time, F(3, 331) = 27.761, p < .001, ƞ2 = .963. Perceptions of PETE TCs reported positive reactions to the use of the online modules to improve their ability to analyze FMS. Based on these findings, the authors propose that implementing an online, mastery-based resource to analyze FMS may be a positive learning experience for TCs and could lead to long-term content knowledge acquisition of critical elements of FMS.