Cooperative Learning in Physical Education: A Systematic Umbrella Review

Abstract

Cooperative learning is one of the most prominent models in physical education due to its value in improving affective, physical, cognitive, social, and psychological domains. This study aimed to conduct a systematic umbrella review to analyse literature contained in systematic reviews addressing cooperative learning and physical education. To this end, an umbrella systematic review, based on the PRISMA method, was conducted in ERIC, PsycINFO, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases, focusing on use of Cooperative Learning in Physical Education classes. Fifty-four reviews were identified, of which seven systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses were selected after applying the eligibility criteria. The synthesis indicated that Cooperative Learning in Physical Education is associated with positive outcomes across affective, physical/motor, cognitive, social, and psychological/behavioural domains, although the strength and scope of evidence varied according to methodological quality and review focus. The main conclusion is that Cooperative Learning promotes students’ integral development in Physical Education.