Children’s Activity Levels and Lesson Context During Summer Swim Instruction

Authors

  • Benjamin Schwamberger Minnesota State University-Mankato
  • Zachary Wahl-Alexander Northern Illinois University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TPE-2016-V73-I4-6977

Keywords:

Physical activity, children, swim instruction

Abstract

Summer swim programs provide a unique opportunity to engage children in PA as well as an important life-saving skill. Offering summer swim programs is critical, especially for minority populations who tend to have higher rates of drowning, specifically in youth populations. The purpose of this study was to determine the lesson context and children’s participation levels during a summer swimming program taught by two experienced PE teachers. The participants in this study were two experienced PE teachers and 45 children who were enrolled in the summer swim program. Data were collected using the System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time (SOFIT) and analyzed using MANOVA and ANOVA statistical tests. Results indicated that the students overall MVPA levels during the swim program were very high (58.96 %). Results also indicated that a majority of the lesson context was spent in skill practice (47.31%), and management (20.23%) was the lowest. These findings provide additional indications that swim instruction is a viable option to provide children with ample MVPA. It would be beneficial moving forward for schools to include swim instruction in the curriculum not only to improve water safety, but also to provide high levels of PA.

Published

2016-11-18

Issue

Section

Articles