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Objectives. This study aimed to investigate the impact of gamification in physical education on enhancing the selfesteem, satisfaction, and motor skills of 7-9-year-old elementary school students. Materials and methods. This study employed a pre-experimental method using a one-group pretest-posttest design without a control group. The participants were 90 elementary school students aged 7-9 years in Salatiga City (Indonesia), selected through purposive sampling. The research instruments included self-esteem, sports satisfaction, and motor skills assessment tools that have been validated and tested for reliability. The gamified intervention was implemented in physical education instruction over eight weeks. The statistical analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, prerequisite tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and paired samples t-tests. Results. The study's findings indicate significant changes in the observed variables following the intervention, with a significance value (Sig) of 0.000 < 0.05. The calculated t-values for all three variables were more significant than the critical t-value of 1.990, with a significance level (Sig. 2-tailed) < 0.05. Therefore, this implies that gamification in elementary physical education instruction has a statistically significant positive impact on students' self-esteem, satisfaction, and motor skills. Conclusions. The findings elucidate that the implementation of a gamification intervention has proven effective in enhancing students' self-esteem, satisfaction with learning, and motor skills abilities. The practical implications of these findings underscore the importance of considering the integration of gamified process into instructional design as a strategy to enhance the quality of physical education learning in elementary schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although physical literacy is explicitly defined and integrated into Canadian provincial physical education curricula, limited empirical evidence substantiates the development of physical literacy in elementary physical education. Despite physical education curricular expectations, developing and assessing physical literacy in students may be difficult for teachers with little to no background in physical literacy or physical education. Purpose: The primary purpose was to explore the effect of a curricularly linked physical literacy enriched intervention in elementary school physical education. A secondary purpose involved an examination of the intervention's effects on sex differences. Design: A quasi-experimental controlled intervention trial with a matched comparison group was used to determine the impact of a curricular-based physical literacy enriched physical education intervention on students' development of physical literacy. Teachers (n = 6) and students (n = 131) from four Saskatchewan elementary schools participated in either a PLitPE (experimental) condition or a usual practice (control) condition. The PLitPE intervention was created using learning principles consistent with physical literacy and Self-Determination Theory. PLitPE instructional elements were developed with input from thirteen teachers who were members of the local school division's physical education professional learning community. An embedded professional development model was used where a mentor teacher was present to facilitate and support the implementation of the PLitPE intervention. The Physical Literacy Assessment for Youth tools were used to assess motor competence (PLAYfun), student self-description (PLAYself), and movement participation (PLAYinventory). Each domain of physical literacy (physical competence, psychological, and behavioural) was evaluated using these tools. Results: Significant differences, favouring PLitPE over control, were observed for average motor competence (M = 49.4, M = 40.0, p < 0.001, PLAYfun), movement vocabulary (M = 10.3, M = 7.5, p < 0.001, PLAYfun), environmental participation (M = 423.9, M = 390.1, p < 0.05, PLAYself), and a reduction of sex differences on average motor competence and movement vocabulary. Statistically significant relationships with low to fair correlations between PLAYfun and PLAYself variables existed. Conclusions: This study provides empirical evidence supporting physical literacy enriched physical education. PLitPE developed the psychological domain (affective and cognitive) and significantly improved physical competence, however, the intervention did not manifest in improved behaviour. Concerning sex differences, the intervention yielded an equal and substantive improvement in both males and females in the intervention group. Future studies should consider the addition of reflective approaches, as well as the construction of positive challenges for children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to examine the pedagogical practices that encourage students with severe disabilities' participation in an elementary physical education program through the lens of ableism. Focus group interviews were conducted with elementary students and semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight educators in the school. Field notes were conducted and documents, including the lesson plan and journal entries were collected. Findings reveal the teacher's intentional instructional practices fostered students' engagement with peers and classroom activities. The results of this research augment the literature describing teachers' orientations and pedagogical innovation that serve the needs of students with disabilities within general physical education settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effects of cognitively challenging physical activity games on students' executive functions and situational interest in physical education. Participants were 144 fourth- and fifth-grade students (75 boys, 69 girls) from four elementary schools. A four-group, repeated measures, cross-over quasi-experimental design was used in this acute experiment including a physical education session. One fourth- and one fifth-grade class from each school were randomly assigned to Group 1 with cognitively challenging physical activity games, Group 2 with a session for teaching soccer skills, Group 3 with a session for teaching track and field skills, and Group 4 (waiting-list control group) with cognitively challenging physical activity games after the post-test. Pre- and post-test measures for executive functions and a post-test measure for situational interest were included. Group 1 students, who were involved in cognitively challenging physical activity games, improved their scores in the executive functions more than students who participated in the sessions with soccer or track and field skills and waiting-list control group students. The positive effects on students' executive functions were replicated when the cognitively challenging physical activity games session was implemented in the waiting-list control group. Some improvements on executive functions for students who participated in the soccer skills session were found. Students who played the cognitively challenging physical activity games reported higher scores on novelty compared to students in the soccer or track and field groups. These results support the effectiveness of the cognitive challenging physical activity games for triggering students' executive functions in physical education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recess strategies that increase children's physical activity and contribute to the daily 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) are recommended. Methods: A cluster randomized trial was conducted to examine the effect of supervised versus organized recess on children's participation, physical activity, play, and social behavior. In supervised recess, children were free to play, and physical education (PE) teachers ensured safety. In organized recess, PE teachers provided challenging tasks. Data were collected using systematic observation. Children (N = 281; 8–10 y) from 14 schools received a 6-day parkour unit in PE and three opportunities to participate in a 20-minute parkour recess. Schools were randomized over a supervised and organized parkour recess condition. Results: The majority of children participated in parkour recess (range = 56%–85%), with more boys participating in all 3 organized versus supervised recess sessions (57% vs 35%, P =.01). Boys spent more time in MVPA during organized recess (79% vs 71%, P =.02). Boys and girls spent more time in activity games during organized recess (59% vs 46%, P =.01; 59% vs 47%, P =.001). Conclusion: Organized recess attracted more children and made the largest contribution to daily MVPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: School physical education (PE) is one of the most effective public health tools to increase youth physical activity, yet compliance with PE mandates is low. In an effort to ensure adherence to state PE law, a 2013 lawsuit was filed against 37 California school districts that were found to be noncompliant. This study sought to assess school personnel's perceptions of the lawsuit's impact on PE mandate compliance, understand barriers and facilitators to lawsuit compliance, and identify potential unintended consequences of the lawsuit. Methods: Phone interviews (n = 97) were conducted with personnel in districts/schools that were parties to the lawsuit and in matched control districts/schools that were not parties to the lawsuit. Results: Interviewees reported that PE minutes increased in schools that were parties to the lawsuit, primarily due to settlement requirements mandating PE tracking and reporting, thereby increasing accountability for PE. Time lost on paperwork was the most often cited barrier to compliance. Unwillingness to participate in PE-related research for fear of incrimination was the primary unintended consequence. Conclusions: When existing PE minute laws are not implemented or enforced, greater accountability is needed. In this case, litigation appears to be an effective accountability mechanism to increase compliance with law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multidimensional measurement is a common theme in motivation research because many constructs are conceptualized as having an overarching general factor (e.g., situational interest) and specific dimensions (e.g., attention demand, challenge, exploration intention, instant enjoyment, novelty). This review addresses current issues associated with the multidimensional measurement of situational interest in elementary physical education (PE) and illustrates the application and benefits of bifactor exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM). I perform secondary analysis on a large, previously published data set used to provide validation support for the Situational Interest Scale for Elementary PE. Findings clearly demonstrate the advantages of capturing the multidimensional nature of situational interest using bifactor ESEM. Specifically, a more accurate measurement model of situational interest is reproduced using bifactor ESEM compared with other techniques such as first-order and second-order confirmatory factor analysis. There is empirical support for an overall general factor of situational interest when using the Situational Interest Scale for Elementary PE, however, examining the five dimensions of situational interest as unique factors after accounting for the general factor does not appear warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purposes of this project were to conduct an overall review of research on preservice physical education (PE) teacher (referred to preservice PE teachers as preservice specialist) and/or preservice elementary teacher (referred to preservice elementary teachers as preservice generalist) PE identities and to identify any new trends in research on the topic. Studies were selected for analysis through searches of databases in English without time limits. In total, 27 articles were identified including 14 data-based studies. The majority of the selected studies (85.7%) employed qualitative methods. Research on the topic was not dominated by any single country. The focus of previous research was centered on determinants of preservice specialist's PE identity construction such as PE coursework and student teaching. Information about the development and measurement of PE identity among preservice specialists and generalists is still sparse. More research on examining the complexity, nurturing and reshaping of PE identities is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a tactical games model instructional plan on game-play volleyball performances of elementary school students, taking into account their skill level. In total, 39 fourth-grade students (average age: 8.9 years) participated in a 13-week unit, in which each lesson exaggerated the use of small-sided games. In-game performances were assessed via the Team Sport Assessment Procedure, while students played a 10-minute modified game (four versus four). Data were collected pre- and post-intervention, and after the summer vacation (retention test). A 2 (skill level) × 3 (time) analysis of variance with repeated measures was used to compare students' performance, and the relevant effects were interpreted mainly by means of confidence intervals and effect size measures. At the end of the instructional period, all participants had an overall moderate to large improvement, and this global improvement seems to have remained at least until the end of the summer vacation. Lower-skilled students attained a larger and more established improvement than high-skilled students did. However, some detrimental effects on in-game students' performance existed at the end of the instructional period. Therefore, teachers have to take into account students' skill levels when designing their lessons because, if small-sided games are adequately considered and managed, students' learning processes can be enhanced. Furthermore, the students should be assigned appropriate learning activities to avoid summer learning loss in physical education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the relationships between student emotions in elementary physical education (PE) and their self-reported personal and social behaviors. Additionally, self-reported emotion and personal and social behavior differences were tested between students receiving a traditional multiactivity and games PE curriculum and those experiencing a Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility (TPSR) model curriculum. Participants were 2nd and 3rd grade students (n =222) from two schools in the United States. Both schools had similar student demographics, school needs, and community characteristics. For secondary comparison analysis, school one (n =87) served as the comparative school receiving a traditional multiactivity curriculum and school two (n =135) received the TPSR model. Results showed that enjoyment and anger were predictors of students' behavioral engagement. Findings also disclosed a significant positive effect for enjoyment, perceived responsibility, and behavioral engagement favoring the TPSR group. The TPSR model may be positively associated with elementary students' beliefs about responsible behaviors, student enjoyment, and training students in positive ways to deal with anger. Overall, investigating the relationship between students' emotions and their personal and social development, as it relates to PE, may provide intervention to reduce some negative experiences students report in these environments. Likewise, positive emotional experiences may increase in-class engagement and the adoption of adaptive personal and social responsibilities within PE and potentially into other areas in and out of school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate elementary students' perceptions of PE teacher credibility. Eight high- and low-skilled students from grades 3 and 5 were selected from a school employing a PE teacher holding a National Board Certification. Data were collected in the school setting utilizing observations, field notes, an open-ended questionnaire, student drawings, a photo elicitation activity, and group and individual interviews. Data were analyzed inductively and deductively using Miles and Huberman's (1994) four-stage analysis in relation to source credibility theory (Hovland, Janis, & Kelley, 1953). Data trustworthiness was ensured through a peer debriefer, reflexivity journal/audit trail and triangulation. In the eyes of the students, a credible PE teacher "Looks Like One," "Practices What She Preaches," and "Is an 'Awesome' Pedagogue." Implications for both current PE teachers and PETE programs concerned with teacher effectiveness and, consequently, student learning are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study evaluated the effects of a goal setting intervention on aerobic fitness (AF) in 6th to 8th grade students. Method: Students at the intervention school received a lesson on SMART goal setting. Students in the comparison school served as a measurement-only group. AF was assessed via the PACER multistage shuttle run test pre and post intervention. Between-group differences for change in AF were assessed using a RM ANCOVA. Results: A significant group by time interaction was observed for PACER performance, F(1,263) = 39.9, p < .0001. Intervention students increased PACER performance from 40.6 to 45.9 laps, while comparison students exhibited a decline from 30.2 to 23.4 laps. Intervention students were 10 times as likely as those in the comparison school to maintain Healthy Fitness Zone status or progress from Needs Improvement Zone to Healthy Fitness Zone. Discussion: Educating middle school students about SMART goal setting may be an effective strategy for improving aerobic fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Students' prior knowledge has been identified to play an important role in the learning process through conceptual change. In physical education, positive changes in students' lifestyles may come from changes in their conceptual understanding. In this study 45 third grade students (mean age = 8.54 years) were interviewed during their regular physical education class to examine their mental models and naïve theories of blood circulation related to exercise. Results revealed one initial mental model (when you exercise, your blood goes everywhere in your body) and three synthetic mental models. These mental models were generated under the constraint of a naïve framework theory. Results are discussed in relation to: (a) the nature of gradual growth of students' mental models through enrichment, (b) children's prior experience of the physical world and their subsequent explanations of physiological changes related to exercise, and (c) physical education as a domain-specific knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the weight of scientific evidence regarding student outcomes (physical, cognitive and affective) of a Game Centered Approach (GCA) when the quality of a study was taken into account in the interpretation of collective findings. A systematic search of five electronic databases (Sports Discuss, ERIC, A+ Education, PsychInfo and PROQUEST Education) was conducted from their year of inception to 30 January 2014. Included studies were longitudinal or experimental/quasi-experimental studies involving children or adolescents that quantitatively assessed (using repeat measures and/ or comparison with a control group) the effects upon student outcomes when an intervention involved the use of a GCA. The search identified 15 articles examining the effects of GCA on student outcomes that met the criteria for inclusion. The weight of evidence provided by the included studies identified an association between a GCA and the outcomes of declarative knowledge, support during game play and affective outcomes of perceived competence, interest/enjoyment and effort/importance. Development of technical skill, procedural knowledge and game play skills of decision making and skill execution are not supported by the level of evidence currently provided. Intervention volume appears to have a large effect on the development of game based decision making and skill execution, with a positive association between these outcomes and use of GCA interventions greater than eight hours in volume. More longitudinal and intervention research examining the use of a GCA and potential psychological, physiological and behavioral outcomes in children and adolescents is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Korfball was invented in a mixed Primary School in Amsterdam in the early 1900s [IKF (2006). Korfball in the Mixed Zone. KNKV; Summerfield and White (1989). Korfball: A Model of Egalitarianism. Sociology of Sport Journal, 6, 144–151]. The main catalyst for the development of korfball was a need for a competitive mixed sport that relied on cooperation and meant boys and girls could participate on a level playing field [Summerfield and White (1989). Korfball: A Model of Egalitarianism. Sociology of Sport Journal, 6, 144–151]. Previous research into gender in physical education (PE) has found that young people gain gender-related understandings through PE [Azzarito (2009). The Panopticon of PE: pretty, active and ideally white. Physical Education & Sport Pedagogy, 14(1), 19–39; Azzarito and Solomon (2009). An Investigation of Students' Embodied Discourses in PE: A gender project. Journal of Teaching in PE, 28, 173–191; Azzarito and Solomon (2010). A Reconceptualization of PE: The intersection of gender/race/social class. Sport, Education and Society, 10(1), 25–47; Chalabaev et al. (2013). The Influence of Sex Stereotypes and Gender Roles on Participation and Performance in Sport and Exercise: Review and future directions. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 14, 136–144; Wright (1995). A Feminist Poststructuralist Methodology for the Study of Gender Construction in PE: Description of a Study. Journal of Teaching in PE, 15, 1–24]. [Thorne (1993). Gender Play: Girls and Boys in School. Rutgers University Press] argues that to remove binary thinking and notions of hegemonic masculinity and femininity, PE lessons should promote equality between girls and boys, reflect cooperation and teamwork between all, and demonstrate to students that gender inclusivity is achievable. This paper will consider findings from a larger ethnographic study, in order to discuss how junior korfball players understand gender within their individual PE settings. It will also seek to discover whether players believe gender discourses can be negotiated in PE through the use of korfball. Players frequently referred to the limitations of their current PE experiences and suggested that the mixed element of korfball could provide opportunities for boys and girls to come together in PE. Players described how the structure of the korfball game reflects a need to use both sexes, which could improve mixed PE lessons. Players also discussed preconceived ideas about boys' games and girls' games, which led to problematic actions and interactions in current mixed PE settings. Findings suggest that embodied practices which demonstrate the abilities of girls, as well as boys, could lead to resistance of dominant discourses which reinforce gender difference and the physical inferiority of girls. They might provide a space which alters dominant discourse often reproduced in PE and sporting environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical education in elementary education usually provides children's first contact with sports. According to the trans-contextual model of motivation, physical education teachers can positively influence children's beliefs toward and actual leisure time physical activity behavior. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a dance-based physical education program on motivation regarding physical education lesson participation, as well as leisure time physical activity participation. The sample consisted of 252 pupils attending Grades 5 and 6 of elementary school (Mage = 10.48 years, SD = 0.50 years). Participants were randomly assigned into three groups. The first group attended a physical education lesson based on various forms of dance, the second one attended lessons with Greek traditional dances only, and the third group served as active control group that attended the typical curriculum. The intervention lasted six weeks. Before and after the intervention, students completed survey-based measures of motivational climate, motivational regulations in physical education and leisure time, enjoyment, attitudes, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and intentions toward leisure time physical activity. In support of the trans-contextual model, results showed that students in the dance intervention programs scored significantly higher in perceptions of motivational climate and beliefs toward leisure time physical activity. The findings of the study suggest that dancing lessons at school can bolster more positive attitudes and beliefs toward physical education and leisure time physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A considerable amount of evidence supports the value of teaching physical education (PE) and the Common Core in unison. This study investigated mathematics concepts taught during fitness segments in elementary PE. Specifically, we studied student perceptions about linking PE activities and mathematics. We wanted to determine if math concepts could be added to the fitness portion of elementary PE classes without a reduction in the amount of physical activity performed, and if student absorption of mathematics knowledge increased by combining the two fields. Fifty-five upper elementary-age students (8-12 years old) of various ethnic backgrounds from one school in Arizona participated. They wore pedometers and also completed mathematics worksheets preintervention and postintervention. Results showed that 54 of 55 students had extremely positive perceptions, indicating their enjoyment of mathematics as a part of the fitness activity. The students completed the math problems during the fitness segment, with a significant increase in mathematics knowledge. We did not find significant differences between step counts in the regular fitness and mathematics fitness segments. The students enjoyed the mental challenge of mathematics content while being physically active in the fitness segment of the class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Physical Culture / Fizicka Kultura is the property of University of Belgrade - Faculty of Sport & Physical Education and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Concerns that current forms of physical education teacher education (PETE) are not adequately providing teachers with the tools necessary for working with the realities and challenges of teaching physical education in contemporary schools has led some scholars to advocate for an approach that prioritises meaningfulness in physical education. There is, however, little empirical evidence of how future teachers might be taught to facilitate meaningful physical education experiences. Purpose: This paper describes a pedagogical approach to PETE to support pre-service teachers (PSTs) in learning how to facilitate meaningful experiences in physical education. We aim to contribute new understanding through sharing pedagogical principles that support PSTs’ ‘Learning About Meaningful Physical Education’ (LAMPE). Participants and setting: The research team consisted of three physical education teacher educators: Tim and Déirdre who implemented LAMPE pedagogies and Mary who acted as meta-critical friend (pseudonyms used for the review process). Results from the LAMPE innovation reported here are taken from implementation across four semesters of two academic years 2013–2015. Déirdre implemented LAMPE in an introduction to teaching physical education course for pre-service generalist elementary teachers. Tim implemented the approach in an undergraduate developmental games course for future physical education teachers. A total of 106 PSTs participated in the research. Data collection and analysis: Data included teacher educator reflections and non-participant observer data from 33 individual lessons, over 7 hours of transcribed teacher educator Skype conversations, 8 ‘turning point’ documents, 15 sets of PST work samples, and transcripts of individual (n = 10) and 9 focus group interviews (n = 18 participants) with PSTs. Data were analysed inductively. Triangulation of multiple data sources and an expert member check supported trustworthiness of the LAMPE approach and data analysis. Findings: We share five pedagogical principles that reflect how PSTs were supported to learn how to facilitate meaningful physical education experiences. Pedagogies included planning for, experiencing, teaching, analysing, and reflecting on meaningful participation. Implementing pedagogies aligned with these five pedagogical principles helped participants learnwhymeaningful participation should be prioritised as well ashowto facilitate meaningful physical education experiences. Conclusions: Pedagogical principles of LAMPE have been constructed from empirical evidence of both teacher educator and PST experiences that supported learning how to promote meaningful physical education. This research contributes new understanding of how to support PSTs in learning to teach with an emphasis on facilitating meaningful physical education experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Teachers who are looking for ways to develop social and emotional learning with their students can use a curriculum model called Adventure-Based Learning (ABL). ABL consists of structured physical activities (cooperative in nature) with periods of reflection. The purpose of this study was to explore elementary physical education students’ lived experience with intrapersonal and interpersonal relationship skills (IIRS) from an ABL unit of instruction. The aim of this study was to determine the credibility of an existing ABL student learning outcome model for use at the elementary school level in the United States. Findings indicated that the elementary students were able to connect, value, develop, and transfer the four IIRS over the course of the ABL unit. The findings provide plausible evidence that IIRS outcomes from the implementation of an ABL unit of instruction are possible to achieve at the elementary school level. Studies that further investigate student outcomes from participation in ABL at the elementary school level are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the issues pertaining to South Korea's elementary physical education (PE) performance assessment, using an assessment literacy (Hay & Penney, 2013) perspective to propose future directions. Eight elementary teachers currently teaching PE were selected as participants. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and on-site data analysis, and analyzed based on an inductive categorical analysis, the results of which were elicited from the four concept factors of assessment literacy. Four themes presented themselves during the research: first, teachers were unclear about the concept of assessment, making it difficult for them to carry out assessments effectively; second, assessments were conducted in a labor exchange and recycling manner, reducing their effectiveness; third, there was a lack of feedback; and fourth, there were teachers' critical thinking without pedagogy. These are the main problems in assessing PE in elementary schools. As for future directions, this study proposes the need for diversifying current teachers' education geared towards enhancing their assessment literacy capability, for providing on-site guidance to build students' assessment literacy, and for evaluating the assessment procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: An objective database for physical education (PE) is important for policy and practice decisions, and the System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time (SOFIT) has been identified as an appropriate surveillance tool for PE across the nation. The purpose of this review was to assess peer-reviewed studies using SOFIT to study K-12 PE in U.S. schools.Method: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses informed the review, and 10 databases were searched for English-language articles published through 2016. A total of 704 records identifying SOFIT were located, and 137 full texts were read. Two authors reviewed full-text articles, and a data extraction tool was developed to select studies and main topics for synthesis.Results: Twenty-nine studies that included direct observations of 12,256 PE lessons met inclusion criteria; 17 were conducted in elementary schools, 9 in secondary schools, and 3 in combined-level schools. Inconsistent reporting among studies was evident, including not all identifying the number of classes and teachers involved. All studies reported student physical activity, but fewer reported observer reliabilities (88%), lesson context (76%), teacher behavior (38%), and PE dosage (34%). The most frequently analyzed independent variables were teacher preparation (48%), lesson location (38%), and student gender (31%).Conclusions: SOFIT can be used reliably in diverse settings. Inconsistent reporting about study procedures and variables analyzed, however, limited comparisons among studies. Adherence to an established protocol and more consistent reporting would more fully enable the development of a viable database for PE in U.S. schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A relationship exists between attitudes toward physical education and future physical activity. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in attitude toward physical education as students progressed from upper elementary school (Grade 4) through middle school (Grade 8).Method: Three cohorts of students (Cohort 1, Grades 4-6, n = 96; Cohort 2, Grades 5-7, n = 71; and Cohort 3, Grades 6-8, n = 73) were each followed for 3 years to examine changes in attitudes toward physical education.Results: After an initial increase from Grade 4 to Grade 5, a significant decrease was observed from Grades 5 to 8 in students' positive attitudes toward physical education, with a faster rate of change for girls than boys.Conclusion: This longitudinal study provides further insights regarding the attitudes of students as they progress from Grade 4 to Grade 8 and expands on previous findings identifying decreasing positive attitudes toward physical education as students age, particularly for girls. The results provide evidence to support targeted interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We examined the effect of a comprehensive school physical activity program (CSPAP) on gross motor skills in children. Methods: Participants were 959 children (1st-6th grade; Mean age = 9.1 ± 1.5 years; 406 girls, 553 boys) recruited from 5 low-income schools receiving a year-long CSPAP intervention. Data were collected at the beginning of the school year and at a 36-week follow-up. Gross motor skills were assessed using the Test for Gross Motor Development (3rd ed.) (TGMD-3) instrument. Multi-level mixed effects models were employed to examine the effect of CSPAP on TGMD-3 scores, testing age and sex as effect modifiers and adjusting for clustering of observations within the data structure. Results: There were statistically significant coefficients for time (β = 8.1, 95% CI [3.9, 12.3], p < .001) and an age × time interaction (β = -1.7, 95% CI [-2.3, -1.1], p < .001) on TGMD-3 total scores. Significant improvements were also seen for locomotor skills and ball skills sub-test scores. Conclusions: Children showed improved gross motor skill scores at the end of the 36-week CSPAP that were modified by age, as younger children displayed greater improvements in TGMD-3 scores compared to older children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the current physical education curriculum on morphological characteristics of first grade primary school male students. In all 79 male students from the primaiy school were tested for the purpose of this research. 13 metrical instruments were used for the assessment of morphological characteristics of male students (body height, total arm length, leg length, biacromial diameter, biiliocristal diameter, chest circumference, circumference of the stretched upper arm, triceps skin fold, subscapular skin fold, abdomen skin fold and body mass). The final measuring was carried out after one year of physical exercise, and the obtained results were compared with the results of the initial measuring. The significance of differences was obtained using student's t-test at the significance level of 0.05% and boundary value of t = 1.96. On the basis of the results and discussion, it can be concluded that the program of physical education had no significant effects on the changes of morphological characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One goal for physical educators is to make their lessons and activities enjoyable; leading to lifelong learning. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of music on fourth grade students' enjoyment in two activities during physical education class. Research is coming forward to suggest that music can benefit a student's physical education experience. For this study 102 fourth grade students were surveyed and interviewed after one lesson with music and another lesson with no music playing. When stratified by gender, both genders enjoyed PE when music was playing more than when music was not playing (27.6% to 10.3% (p<0.01) for males, and 20.5% to 4.5% (p<0.01) for females. The odds of enjoying PE was 5.87 times more when music was playing (p<0.01); with no significant difference observed by gender. Findings indicate students enjoy having music playing during their lessons. From student interviews, elementary-aged students felt the lessons with music were more enjoyable; while allowing for more perceived exertion during class activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary physical education (PPE) is increasingly being recognised for the role it can potentially play in setting a foundation for lifelong engagement in physical activity. However, the majority of the literature continues to focus on the negative features of the subject within the primary context. Whilst acknowledging the existence of these barriers, this paper sets out to take a proactive approach by presenting a conceptual framework for PPE that seeks to support a renewed and positive vision for the future. Based on ideas from complexity thinking, the framework represents a move beyond the more positivist and linear approaches that have long been reported to dominate practices in PPE and recognises learners as active agents engaged in a learning process that is collaborative, non-linear and uncertain. While acknowledging the contested nature of the complexity field, the paper explores how key principles, including self-organisation, emergence, similarity, diversity, connectedness, nestedness, ambiguous bounding, recursive elaboration and edge of chaos, offer a lens that views PPE as a complex system. With the children's learning positioned as the focus of PPE in the educational setting, the paper discusses how complexity principles interweave with the ecological components to help us better understand and more creatively engage with the complex nature of PPE developments. Specifically, these components are identified as PPE learning experiences and their associated pedagogy, teachers and their PPE professional learning and key environmental factors that include the physical environment and key stakeholders who influence developments across the different levels of the education system. The paper concludes by suggesting that this complexity-informed PPE framework represents an open invitation for the all those involved in PPE to engage in a collective process of exploration and negotiation to positively influence developments in PPE. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study examines physical education (PE) curriculum development in an elementary school. Our goal was to understand the daily construction of a curriculum. We sought to analyse the theoretical and methodological framework and documents that a PE teacher uses each day while putting a curriculum into practice (lived curriculum). The data collection instruments included participant observation, interviews and document analysis. The analytical process revealed the influence of internal and external factors that affect both the authorship and the autonomy of a teacher working on the daily construction of a lived PE curriculum and that create tensions, struggles and conflicts. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Copyright of Facta Universitatis: Series Physical Education & Sport is the property of Facta Universitatis, Series Physical Education & Sport and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives: California elementary schools are mandated to provide students with regular physical education. This pilot study compared an evidence-based physical education program to a modified version of the program that was cheaper, and emphasized brief, simple physical activity classroom breaks at teachers' discretion. Methods: Participants were 523 3rd through 6th grade students and their parents who completed pre-test and post-test surveys. Results: Relative to control students, intervention students demonstrated greater reductions in overweight/obesity status and parent-reported screen time, but also a decrease in parent-reported frequency of fruit and vegetable intake. Conclusions: Modifications to an existing physical activity intervention may be made to reduce costs and facilitate teacher implementation. Additional resources may be needed to impact nutrition behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have highlighted the applicability of approach and avoidance constructs in achievement goals as people aim to either prove their competencies or avoid doing so. This is even more apparent in higher education. The aim of this paper is to determine the implementation of a questionnaire on achievement goals for students with a specialization in Physical Education at the Universidad de Granada, and compare the results with sporting, academic and professional variables, using 140 students from the aforementioned specialization in two universities. The results showed that the students opt for mastery rather than performance, with similar values found between approach and avoidance. No links were found between the scale and the rest of the variables analyzed, and therefore it may be considered that motivational trends follow two differentiating paths. These findings highlight the need to rethink motivational strategies in order to redirect avoidance-prone students and encourage, insofar as is possible, students' commitment and adherence to the learning process in physical education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reviews the successes and challenges of a train-the-trainer model for educating elementary school children about nutrition and physical activity in an effort to combat the obesity epidemic. The incidence of people becoming overweight and obese is alarming, and especially so in school-aged children. It is important for family and consumer sciences (FCS) professionals to combat this trend with appropriate interventions. FCS professionals are experts at training and program implementation, and they can be informed by the lessons learned in this study. Programs that recruit appropriate staff (trainers), implement parsimonious curriculum, provide mentoring, and secure sustained funding likely will experience greater satisfaction with program implementation and evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine pre-service teachers' (PTs) ability to deliver feedback, which has been used as a process variable in identifying teacher-effectiveness and an established NASPE standard for beginning teachers. These questions guided the study: 1. Will overall feedback interactions delivered by PTs reach 45 per video? 2. What is the nature of the feedback interactions provided by physical education pre-service teachers? The participants in this study were nine college-aged PTs enrolled in a required Elementary Physical Education Practicum and Methods course taught twice per week to students in Grades 3 to 6 and videotaped four times. Analysis of the videotapes was performed using the Studiocode analysis program. PTs surpassed the 45 feedback interactions by delivering an average of 56 feedback interactions per lesson. Delivery of corrective feedback was reduced from 34.78 interactions in pretest to 32 interactions during posttest. Congruent feedback increased from pretest to posttest from 6.22 to 8.55 interactions, respectively. Individual interactions were reduced from pretest (39.55) to posttest (26.55), and small group interactions increased from pretest (17.55) to posttest (21.66). Analysis of videotapes should continue to be integrated during field experiences to augment PTs pedagogical skills. Future research should be focused on the effects of specific feedback protocols on PTs delivery of feedback during field experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elementary school physical education can play a prominent role in promoting children's leisure-time physical activity. The trans-contextual model of motivation has been proven effective in describing the process through which school physical education can affect students' leisure-time physical activity. This model has been tested in secondary education, but there is no evidence on the applicability of the model in elementary education. In the present study, we assessed the effect of motivation in elementary school physical education on leisure-time physical activity motivation and the related decision-making process. The sample consisted of 241 pupils (M = 11.52, SD = .51) recruited from elementary schools in Northern Greece. Participants completed a questionnaire including measures of physical education and leisure-time physical activity motivational regulations, attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and intentions toward leisure-time physical activity. The results of hierarchical regression analyses indicated that motivational regulations in physical education best predicted the respective leisure-time physical activity regulations. In addition, leisure-time physical activity motivational regulations predicted intentions toward physical activity. Multiple mediation analyses indicated that the effect of leisure-time physical activity motivational regulations on intentions was partially mediated by perceived behavioral control. The findings support prior research and demonstrate an important mechanism of how motivation in elementary school physical education can influence leisure-time physical activity. Autonomous motivation in elementary school physical education led to higher students' intentions toward physical activity outside the school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unqualified paraprofessionals are teaching many elementary physical education (PE) programs around the United States. These teachers have neither the experience nor the education to provide quality instruction to students. Few researchers have identified the essential nature of teacher feedback in teaching motor skills, and it has been hypothesized teachers with little training may be less likely to give effective feedback to students. The purpose of this study was to examine the frequency and type of reinstruction strategies used by paraprofessionals and licensed teachers in elementary PE settings using a modified self-assessment feedback instrument (SAFI). Two licensed PE teachers and two paraprofessionals from the same school district in the western United States were observed four times using the SAFI tool. All 20 lessons were analyzed to understand the differences in the type and frequency of feedback between licensed PE teachers and paraprofessionals. ANOVA results indicate a significant difference between the type and frequency of feedback given by the groups. Overall, licensed teachers most commonly employed a constructive criticism strategy for providing feedback (43.6%), and paraprofessionals primarily engaged in behavior modification (75.1%). Additionally, licensed PE teachers gave more than twice as much feedback as paraprofessionals. These findings make clear the crucial nature of undergraduate PETE programs in providing licensed teachers with the skills and experience necessary to deliver appropriate feedback in elementary PE settings. Policy makers must be aware of the discrepancies between unqualified individuals and specialists to make the best policy decisions for students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A project named “Physical Education in the of elementary school: a proposal for social inclusion through motor activities”, which was part of a State Government program “ University Without Borders “ was developed in two cities with low HDI (Human Development Index) in west Paraná State, where physical education classes began to be taught by licensed teachers, rather than teachers with other backgrounds. The aim of this paper is to investigate the importance of the licensed Physical Education teacher, with a graduate degree, to teach classes in the early years of elementary school, taking into account the experience acquired in these municipalities. The methodology of this descriptive research was guided to two aspects. First, in the form of standardized tests with 340 children; and second, in the form of a questionnaire conducted with parents (16), directors (2), teachers (11) and students who attended the project (340). The test results showed that there was an increase of children’s development in relation to the initial diagnosis (beginning of school year) when compared to that achieved at the end of the year, considering the standard scores for dribbling, throwing, kicking, tests of balance, body structure, spatial awareness, fine and gross motor skills. The questionnaires results demonstrated that children improved in social-affective, cognitive and motor aspects, as a result of lessons ministered by teachers of the project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current concerns about a childhood obesity crisis and children's physical activity levels have combined to justify fitness lessons as a physical education practice in New Zealand primary (elementary) schools. Researchers focused on children's understandings of fitness lessons argue that they construct fitness as a quest for an ‘ideal’ (skinny or muscular) body. The conflation of fitness with thinness, however, is complex and problematic. In this paper, we draw from research conducted with a class of primary school children in New Zealand. Drawing on the theoretical tools of Foucault and utilizing a visual methods approach, we examine how children experience school fitness lessons and construct notions of fitness, health and body. The children's responses illustrated that obesity discourses and body pedagogies ‘collided’ in a way that shaped understandings of fitness lessons in ways inextricably connected with the avoidance of being fat. The children assumed that fitness lessons increased fitness and that being fit was demonstrated by a ‘correct’ corporeal appearance. We argue that body pedagogies inside and outside the school gates shape children's ideas about the body in ways which exclude other understandings of bodies, health, and physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Primary aim of physical and health education and of this education and upbringing activity, among other things, is to secure favorable conditions for physical education as modern civilization value and a need, in order to advance quality and effectiveness of life, and for advancement of health level especially in the adolescent phase of life, and to create opportunities for involvement of pupils in various sports. Methods: This research has the goal to evaluate importance of taxonomy analysis in the selection of pupils in sports. This means involvement of a process of measurement of morphological and motoric indicators of 26 pupils involved in sport activities in the age group of 15 years in the elementary and lower level secondary school "Faik Konica" from Prishtina and 30 pupils of age group 15 years in the elementary and lower level school „Avdulla Tahiri” from Malishevë. 6 anthropometric variables have been applied and 4 motoric variables (Kurelić et al., 1975). Anthropometric variables applied are: body height (ATV), length of foot (ADS), body mass (ATT), volume of upper arm in down position (AONL), volume of upper leg (AONK), volume of lower leg (AOPK). Motoric variables applied were: distance jump from standing position (MFESDM), running from 30 meter distance (MTR30V), bench bending (MFLPRK), and push-ups (MSKLEK). Results: Taxonomy analysis applied demonstrates that these groups of pupils has been divided in two groups, first group composed of 22 pupils and second group of 34 pupils. Results obtained in the table using Anova discriminative analysis have verified statistical significance of the difference between these groups. Discussion: Taxonomy analysis is used in order to group, namely classify sample of students on the basis of anthropometric and motoric parameters. Goal of this analysis was to create a homogenous sub sample on the basis of given sample, one that has as more as possible of a joint morphological and motoric parameters. Obtained results demonstrate that this research has resulted in two sub-groups of homogenous nature, the second group of 34 pupils' shows to be a group with better anthropometric and motoric parameters for selection for football. Similar results when it comes to selection have been obtained in other researches (Goletić, et al. 2012). The other group of 22 pupils has lower anthropometric and motoric parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important preconditions for effective influence of physical body exercises among pupils during regular classes of physical education in schools is increased volume and quality of work and study. In order to increase volume and quality of work and study, it is necessary to carry out reform of education at elementary and lower level secondary education in Kosova in order to advance professional personnel and increase number of hours for sport and health education classes. Methods: This research is of a transversal nature, meaning that there has been a measurement of morphological and motoric indicators in the sample of 26 pupils of the age group of 15 years of the elementary and lower level school "Faik Konica" from Prishtina as an urbane center and sample of 30 pupils of elementary and lower level school „Avdulla Tahiri” from Malisheva. 6 anthropometric and 4 motoric variables have been used (Kurelić et al., 1975). Anthropometric variables included: body height (ATV), length of foot (ADS), body mass (ATT), volume of upper arm in down position (AONL), volume of upper leg (AONK), volume of lower leg (AOPK). Motoric variables included: standing position distance jump (MFESDM), 30 meters distance running (MTR30V), bench bending (MFLPRK), and push-ups (MSKLEK). T-test analysis has been used for independent variables. Results: Obtained results from the statistical analysis demonstrate that anthropometric characteristics and motoric skills of two independent groups of pupils have normal distribution and no visible asymmetry and have tendency toward higher values (epikurtic). T-test analysis demonstrates that pupils from rural areas have lower muscular mass and lower motoric results. Discussion: Conditions for execution of physical education classes and lack of physical activities in the rural environment have strong influence on developments of morphological and motoric characteristics of pupils. Significant statistical differences obtained in these groups demonstrate that pupils in the elementary and lower level secondary education school „Avdulla Tahiri” from Malisheva have lower muscular mass and motoric abilities at the level p<0.05, due to economic and social conditions. Results indicate that promotion of healthy life style among adolescents has even greater importance due to insight gained by Paavola and sur. (2004.), that underlines positive correlation between regular sports and recreational activities and correct nutrition habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Music is a pervasive presence in society and is routinely used to influence human behavior in a variety of settings and for a variety of purposes including exercise behaviors and physical education (PE) classes. However, little evidence exists to support what effect, if any, music has on learner outcomes in PE. The effects that playing music during elementary PE lessons had on children's physical activity (PA) rates were examined in this study. Physical activity rates (via pedometry) of elementary PE students (Grades 3 to 5, n = 115) were measured under two treatment conditions (music or no music) and across two lesson types (walking or Frisbee) in a crossover design. Data were analyzed using a within-and-within repeated measures ANOVA. Findings indicate that including music throughout PE lessons significantly increases PA for both genders and across both activities (p < .000). Also, a significant music-by-activity type interaction effect was noted (p < .000), indicating that music has an increased effect as the nature of the activity becomes more vigorous. A significant gender effect (p < .000) was also noted. Using music may be a beneficial environmental change that will increase PA in elementary PE and is more pronounced as intensity increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The aim of the study was to determine the level and changes in the level of temporal-spatial orientation in first-grade pupils from elementary schools who participated in Physical Education classes integrated with subject-related contents that used Edubal educational balls. Material/Methods Research material comprised first-grade pupils from two classes in an elementary school in Wroclaw, Poland. The study was carried out during the second term of the 2013/2014 school year. Fifty-four pupils (26 girls and 18 boys) were diagnosed in total. The study employed the method of a pedagogical experiment that used the parallel groups technique (experimental class and control class). Results In the first examination, pupils from the control group obtained better results compared to pupils from the experimental group (p=0.04). In the second examination, pupils from the experimental class obtained better results compared to those from the control group. However, the difference between the results obtained in both groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.87). Conclusions The results obtained in the study lead to a conclusion that it is justified to carry out further studies in order to evaluate the level and possible changes in temporal-spatial orientation in first-grade pupils from elementary school who participate in Physical Education classes that use Edubal educational balls and to search for the relationships between the pupils' temporal-spatial orientation and school performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of fitness software FitnessGram. Topics discussed include physical education in children in schools, childhood obesity and antiobesity programs. Other topics such as American cultures, social stigmatization and health promotion are also discussed. Parenting and exercising are also mentioned.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 1-minute stretching programme and 5 weeks of detraining on sit-and-reach score among schoolchildren aged 5–6 years in a physical education setting. Forty-five schoolchildren 5–6 years old from two classes were clustered randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 23) or a control group (n = 22). During the physical education classes, the students of the experimental group performed a 1-minute stretching programme twice a week for 8 weeks. Subsequently, these participants underwent a 5-week detraining period. The classic sit-and-reach test was performed at the beginning and at the end of the development programme, as well as at the end of the detraining period. The results of the two-way ANOVA showed that the intervention programme increased significantly the students’ sit-and-reach scores ( p < 0.001). However, after 5 weeks of detraining, children’s flexibility reverted back to the baseline levels ( p > 0.05). Although an only 1-minute stretching programme seems to develop the schoolchildren’s flexibility, after the 5-week detraining period students’ score reverts back to its initial level. This knowledge could help physical education teachers to design programmes that permit students to increase and maintain flexibility levels along the entire academic year. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article focuses on incorporation of science into early childhood physical education program. Topics discussed include integration of force, motion, and simple machines for teaching science during for physical education program, set up five interactive stations for students to experience different forces, motions, and simple machines including a Vernier force plate, a scooter and eyehook and pulley attached to ceiling beam; and connecting the same to the Next Generation Science Standards.

Copyright of Croatian Journal of Education / Hrvatski Časopis za Odgoj i Obrazovanje is the property of Uciteljski Fakultet u Zagrebu and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Many studies that show that all individuals (children, adolescents, adults) who participate in regular Physical Activity, namely "every day" their memory, concentration and communication, problem solving and leadership skills will be improved compared with individuals who are inactive. Moreover, these improvements can have a positive impact in their process of learning and many other subject areas. The purpose of this study is to present the prevalence of physical activity in Albanian children’s and adolescents during their leisure time and teaching process. The instrument used in this study is "Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children's and Adolescents (PAQ-A and PAQ-C), by Kowalski et al. (1997), made up 8 questions. The sample of the study includes 400 pupils aged 9 - 19 (185 Male and 215 Female). The statistical data processing was performed by SPPS statistical program, version 20. Cronbach’s Alpha .820 was used to assess the reliability of the instrument. Volleyball, athletics and football sports are among the most favored by pupils in their leisure time. 56.5% of them claim that they are always intensely involved in the class of PE and 48.3% of them claim that after lesson they prefer to stand around/walk. In extracurricular activities 36% of adolescent’s claim that they are not included ever and 30.5% of them state that they are included 1 times at the week and during weekends 52.5% of them are involved 2 - 3 times. The subjects were engaged to get involved in PA at class and during schools day but they are more involved during Saturday and Sunday, during their leisure time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Role modeling is a powerful teaching tool. With the skills, talents and attitudes teachers possess or lack, they are one of the key, perhaps the most important, building blocks of the educational system. Teachers who take pride in being physically active and demonstrate motor skills during physical education lessons can influence school children positively. The purpose of this article is to communicate the importance of "teacher as a role model" in physical education. It seems, however, that in our schools, role modeling can be a forgotten element of teaching. Hence, this is an issue that deserves further consideration and discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was conducted on a sample of 170 female students at the age of 14-16 years, from the elementary school. According to the research criteria, answering the question of the requirement for engaging in sports, the sample was divided on two subsamples, and with this research 170 girls were tested, from which 70 were defined as female students who regularly attend classes of physical education and are dealing with volleyball and 100 were defined as female students who regularly attend classes of physical education but are not dealing with any sport. The main goal of this research is partially establishing the quantitative and structural differences in basic-motor abilities of female students at the age of 14-16 years dealing with sports (volleyball) and non athletes. For the determination of the partial quantitate differences on uni variant level between the two subsamples t-test for small independent samples was applied. Based on the results of Wilk's Lambda, and in association with Rao's approximation, are giving a significant difference Q = .00 (p- level = 0.00) of the analyzed space. From the analysis of the results it can be concluded that there are differences between groups in the examined space. By applying the uni variant analysis of variance (ANOVA), can be seen statistically significant difference between respondents in the two groups of respondents in the variables: From the results of the t-test, it can be concluded that the analyzed group of respondents statistically significant differs in the variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population from which the sample was taken from consists of 64 subjects from elementary school students in Nis, male, ages 10 and 11 ±6 months. From such a defined sample, two subsamples were formed: the first sub-sample of 32 subjects, in addition to the regular physical education of two hours per week, it consists of two additional hours per week with additional classes of gymnastics (experimental group participants); second subsample of 32 respondents, included four times a week, regular physical education (control group). The main objective of the research was to determine the influence of the regular physical education in relation to the classes with additional classes of gymnastics in the transformation processes of some of the dimensions of motor abilities (explosive strength, repetitive strength, and segment speed). To assess these abilities, nine motor tests were applied. Processing of the data obtained from these tests, using multivariate analysis of covariance showed that at the end of the experimental procedure, the final compared to the initial measurement, the experimental group of respondents, compared to the control group, achieve better results in the treated motor abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In physical education, it has become necessary for children to learn kinesiological knowledge for understanding the benefits of physical activity and developing a physically active lifestyle. This study was conducted to determine the extent to which cognitive assignments about healthful living and fitness contributed to knowledge growth on cardiorespiratory fitness and health. Fourth grade students (N = 616) from 15 randomly sampled urban elementary schools completed 34 cognitive assignments related to the cardiorespiratory physical activities they were engaged in across 10 lessons. Performance on the assignments were analyzed in relation to their knowledge gain measured using a standardized knowledge test. A multivariate discriminant analysis revealed that the cognitive assignments contributed to knowledge gain but the contribution varied assignment by assignment. A multiple regression analysis indicated that students’ assignment performance by lesson contributed positively to their knowledge growth scores. A content analysis based on the constructivist learning framework showed that observing–reasoning assignments contributed the most to knowledge growth. Analytical and analytical–application assignments contributed less than the constructivist theories would predict. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]