University of North Texas

Jerry R. Thomas, professor and dean of the College of Education, visited San Jose, Costa Rica in July to give the keynote address at a conference celebrating the establishment of a new doctoral program.

The National University of Costa Rica and the University of Costa Rica just launched a doctorate in human movement sciences, the study of physical activity.

“This will be the only Ph.D. in human movement in Costa Rica and all of Central America, Thomas said. "Rather than seek doctoral preparation in the U.S. or Europe, many more faculty will be able to pursue their Ph.D. locally and this will greatly improve their programs."

Thomas’ keynote address, “The Evolution of Research in Kinesiology,” was given at the opening ceremony to nearly 200 attendees. He also met with master's and doctoral students from both universities to discuss research design and data analysis in kinesiology, and addressed faculty on writing research for publication.

Both universities use Thomas’s textbook, Research Methods in Physical Activity, which provides an overview of the research process and available methods for students researching within all subdisciplines of kinesiology and exercise science as well as physical therapy, rehabilitation and occupational therapy. The book has been translated into seven languages and is now in its sixth edition.

Photo courtesy of Felipe Araya-Ramírez