Exploring Professional Capital in Physical Education

In this paper, we introduce professional capital to the field of physical education as a means of strengthening the collective capacity of the physical education workforce. Drawing from Hargreaves and Fullan’s conceptualization of human, social, and decisional capital, we examine how these interdependent forms of capital can enhance collaboration and collective action across PETE and K-12 physical education contexts. We suggest that the cultivation of professional capital centers on investments in relationships and collective decision making. As broad examples, we explore how professional capital can inform the collective navigation of sociopolitical contexts in K-12 schools and higher education, the development of signature pedagogies within PETE programs, and the nature of continuous professional development opportunities such as professional learning communities. We position professional capital as a promising framework for enhancing collaboration and building collective capacity across the physical education workforce.