Socially critical research in physical education

Abstract

Socially critical research in physical education, the one developed in order to contribute to social change and transformation, has been recognized during the last decade. However, it has a considerable tradition of this kind of research. This article provides background and evolution of this type of research from the 1980s to the present. The major contributions of the early period and the internationalization of such inquiries and the main directions and subject areas of interest are presented. The main challenges, as well as the methodological perspectives and issues for the future are also plotted. The paper finishes by noting the need for such research due to the social, economic and ecological aspects of a globalized world, and invites readers to participate actively in the development of this research tradition.