In discussing how the use of research findings can improve teacher education program, a parallel is drawn between preservice education courses for physical education teachers and commercial training courses. A number of design and personnel characteristics that have application in teacher preparation are identified. It is pointed out that commercial training programs are client-oriented to a far greater degree than teacher education programs, and that research findings have indicated the effectiveness of this approach. However, while teacher educators have access to the research literature on teaching and teacher preparation, it does not necessarily follow that recourse to such knowledge is a normal part of program operation or curriculum development. The problem of helping physical education professors become more comfortable with research is discussed within the framework of not only individual effort but also of concerted and collegial effort on the part of the faculty within the department. (A 71-item bibliography is included.) (JD)