Creative Drama in Physical Education: A Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis of National and International Studies

This study aims to analyze and report on national and international studies on creative drama in physical education from a comparative perspective. By presenting the research designs, sample profiles, intervention durations, and key findings of the studies examined, it seeks to synthesize the relevant literature, identify methodological trends, and highlight potential research gaps. In line with this purpose, the study was designed as a systematic review. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, Dergipark, the YÖK National Thesis Center, and EBSCO. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a final total of 30 studies was selected for analysis. The analysis of the selected studies was conducted using descriptive content analysis and thematic synthesis. According to the findings, this method emerged as a model that holistically integrates cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domain gains rather than merely teaching technical skills. In conclusion, it was established that creative drama is not merely a playful activity in physical education instruction but rather a pedagogical tool that helps students make sense of their physical movements, supports the socialization process, and facilitates the development of embodied cognition. Therefore, creative drama should be positioned at the center of the pedagogical process in physical education instruction. In teacher training programs, creative drama should be structured in alignment with a curriculum integrated with classroom management, inclusive education, and values education. To ensure the sustainability of this practice, teachers should be supported through leadership training based on creative drama. In terms of research, it is recommended that the field shift toward mixed-methods approaches incorporating longer-term qualitative designs rather than relying predominantly on short-term quantitative studies. Particular attention should be given to under-researched groups such as high school students, professional athletes, and participants in various sports disciplines. At the national level, collaborations with arts institutions will help ensure that creative drama becomes a sustainable and institutionalized pedagogical approach.