Uncovering What’s Really Important: Using Drawings to Enhance the Dialogue With Students About Physical Education Experiences

Purpose: To present a case for using drawings as a valuable way of incorporating student voice in research on physical education. Presented in the form of a “primer,” the paper examines theoretical and practical aspects of drawing research. Sections: The paper is presented in three parts. The first introduces drawings as a valuable participatory visual method, explaining what they are and why study them. Second, a brief history is provided of the use of drawings in classroom and physical education research. The third section provides key points to consider when administering a drawing project and analyzing drawings. Key Messages: Drawings have the potential to make the invisible visible. That is, what is missing in a drawing may be as impactful as other objects that are present. In addition, to maximize the value of drawings, students should be asked to describe their drawings (either through an accompanying interview, or draw, and write), as possible elements might emerge that were not visible, or to assist with clarification of all elements of the drawing.