A review of spectrum research: the contributions of two eras {Quest, 52(3), 229–245}

Abstract

Research on Mosston's (1966, 1981) and subsequently Mosston and Ashworth's (1986, 1994) Spectrum of Teaching Styles has been conducted for more than three decades. The Spectrum has provided PETE researchers with a framework to systematically study teaching and learning in physical education. In this paper, Spectrum research completed over the past 30 years is reviewed in light of the development and refinement of the Spectrum of Teaching Styles. The review of literature is organized around two time periods, the 1970s to the early 80s, and the mid 1980s to the present, to exemplify the link between the development of Spectrum research and the evolution of the Spectrum of Teaching Styles. What we have learned about the reproductive and productive clusters of Spectrum teaching styles based on research is discussed as well as future directions for Spectrum research.