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Diao Y, Wang L, Chen S, Barnett LM, Mazzoli E, Essiet IA, Wang X, Wang L, Zhao Y, Li X, Li J. The validity of the Physical Literacy in Children Questionnaire in children aged 4 to 12. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:869. [PMID: 38515090 PMCID: PMC10956319 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18343-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the growing evidence on the health benefits associated with physical literacy (PL), it is necessary to develop sound measures to assess the levels of PL in children. The Physical Literacy in Children Questionnaire (PL-C Quest) is the first self-report pictorial-based scale to assess children's perceived PL. It has good validity and reliability in Australian children aged 7 to 12 years, but little is known in younger children and in other cultural contexts. The aim of this study was to examine the validity and reliability in an expanded age range. METHODS A total of 1,870 Chinese children (girls, n = 871; 46.6%), aged 4 to 12 years (M = 8.07 ± 2.42) participated in validity testing. Structural equation modeling with the Weighted Least Squares with Mean and Variance approach was used to assess construct validity. The hypothesized theoretical model used the 30 items and four hypothesized factors: physical, psychological, social and cognitive capabilities. Multigroup confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess sex and age group (4-6 years, 7-9 years and 10-12 years) measurement invariance. Internal consistency analyses were conducted using polychoric alpha. A random subsample (n = 262) was selected to determine test-retest reliability using Intra-Class Correlations (ICC). RESULTS All items except one (moving with equipment-skateboarding) loaded on sub-domains with λ > 0.45. The hypothesized model had a good fit (CFI = 0.954, TLI = 0.950, RMSEA = 0.042), with measurement equivalence across sex and age groups separately. Internal consistency values were good to excellent (overall: α = 0.94; physical: α = 0.86; psychological: α = 0.83; social: α = 0.81; cognitive: α = 0.86). Test-retest reliability was adequate to excellent (overall: ICC = 0.90, physical: ICC = 0.86, psychological: ICC = 0.75, social: ICC = 0.71, cognitive: ICC = 0.72). CONCLUSION The Chinese version of the PL-C Quest is valid and reliable for testing the self-reported PL of Chinese children aged 4 to 12. This study provides the first evidence of validity for this tool in children aged 4-6 years and also evidence that the PL-C Quest would be a meaningful instrument to assess PL in Chinese children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucui Diao
- School of Physical Education and Sport, Shandong Normal University, No.1, University Road, Changqing district, Jinan, Shandong, 250358, China
| | - Li Wang
- College of Physical Education, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Sitong Chen
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lisa M Barnett
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Emiliano Mazzoli
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Inimfon A Essiet
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Xiaofen Wang
- Physical Education and Arts School, Chengyi College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaping Zhao
- Library, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, China
| | - Xuanxi Li
- School of Physical Education and Sport, Shandong Normal University, No.1, University Road, Changqing district, Jinan, Shandong, 250358, China
| | - Jing Li
- School of Physical Education and Sport, Shandong Normal University, No.1, University Road, Changqing district, Jinan, Shandong, 250358, China.
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Contardo Ayala AM, Parker K, Mazzoli E, Lander N, Ridgers ND, Timperio A, Lubans DR, Abbott G, Koorts H, Salmon J. Effectiveness of Intervention Strategies to Increase Adolescents' Physical Activity and Reduce Sedentary Time in Secondary School Settings, Including Factors Related to Implementation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sports Med Open 2024; 10:25. [PMID: 38472550 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-024-00688-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, just one in five adolescents meet physical activity guidelines and three-quarters of the school day is spent sitting. It is unclear which types of school-based interventions strategies increase physical activity and reduce sedentary time among adolescents, or how these interventions are implemented influences their effectiveness. OBJECTIVE The three aims of our systematic review were to (a) identify intervention strategies used within secondary school settings to improve students' movement behaviours throughout school-based initiatives, delivered at or by the school; (b) determine the overall effect of the interventions (meta-analysis) on physical activity (all intensities), sedentary time, cognitive/academic, physical health and/or psychological outcomes; and (c) describe factors related to intervention implementation. METHODS Searches were conducted in MEDLINE complete, EMBASE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, APA PsycINFO, and ERIC in January 2023 for studies that (a) included high school-aged adolescents; (b) involved a school-based intervention to increase physical activity and/or decrease sedentary time; and (c) were published in English. Reported effects were pooled in meta-analyses where sufficient data were obtained. RESULTS Eighty-five articles, representing 61 interventions, met the inclusion criteria, with 23 unique intervention strategies used. Interventions that involved whole-school approaches (i.e., physical activity sessions, environmental modifications, teacher training, peer support and/or educational resources) were favourably associated with most of the outcomes. The meta-analyses showed: (a) non-significant effects for sedentary time (Standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.02; 95%CI, -0.14, 0.11), physical activity at all intensities (light: SMD= -0.01; 95%CI, -0.08, 0.05; moderate: SMD = 0.06; 95%CI, -0.09, 0.22; vigorous: SMD = 0.08; 95%CI, -0.02, 0.18; moderate-to-vigorous: SMD = 0.05; 95%CI, -0.01, 0.12) and waist circumference (SMD = 0.09; 95%CI, -0.03, 0.21), and (b) a small statistically significant decrease in body mass index (SMD= -0.09, 95%CI -0.16, -0.0). Factors related to intervention implementation were reported in 51% of the articles. CONCLUSION While some intervention approaches demonstrated promise, small or null effects were found in meta-analyses. Future school-based interventions should utilize a whole-school approach designed to increase adolescents' activity across the day. Consistent reporting of implementation will increase understanding of how interventions are adopted, implemented and sustained. REGISTRATION PROSPERO (CRD42020169988).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana María Contardo Ayala
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Kate Parker
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emiliano Mazzoli
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Natalie Lander
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicola D Ridgers
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health & Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, , Australia
| | - Anna Timperio
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - David R Lubans
- Centre for Active Living and Learning, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Hunter Medical Research institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Gavin Abbott
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Harriet Koorts
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jo Salmon
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Mavilidi MF, Pesce C, Mazzoli E, Bennett S, Paas F, Okely AD, Howard SJ. Effects of Cognitively Engaging Physical Activity on Preschool Children's Cognitive Outcomes. Res Q Exerc Sport 2023; 94:839-852. [PMID: 35522990 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2022.2059435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Research combining physical activity with the training of cognitive skills such as executive functions is emerging as a novel and fruitful intervention approach for children. Purpose: This study aimed to examine the impact of an intervention program including cognitively engaging physical activity on preschool children's cognitive outcomes and physical activity. Methods: Children (N = 144, 65 female; Mage = 4.41 years, SD = 0.61), randomly assigned to one of three groups: cognitively engaging physical activity (CPA; i.e., storytelling, cognitive activities, and motor tasks, n = 55), cognition (i.e., storytelling and cognitive activities without motor tasks, n = 48), or control (i.e., traditional storytelling, n = 41). Sessions lasted approximately 17 minutes, conducted twice a week, for 6 weeks. Children's executive function, self-regulation, and related outcomes (i.e., numeracy) were assessed at baseline and again-along with perceived enjoyment-at the end of the program. Accelerometers measured children's physical activity during each session. Teachers completed a logbook for each session, and two fidelity checks per preschool took place by the researcher. Main analyses used linear mixed models adjusted for covariates (age, sex) and clustering at the preschool level. Results: Results showed no significant group by time interaction for executive function, self-regulation, numeracy, enjoyment. During the sessions, children in the CPA group were more physically active than children in the cognition and control groups. Conclusion: While we did not find the expected amplified cognitive benefits, making storytelling more active has the potential to meet two needs (increase cognitive stimulation and physical activity levels) in one deed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Fred Paas
- University of Wollongong
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
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Martins RMG, Mazzoli E, Duncan MJ, Clark CCT, Eyre ELJ. The Acute Effects of Cognitively Demanding Physical Activity on Inhibitory and Affective Responses in Children: An Online-Based Mixed Methods Approach. Children (Basel) 2022; 9:children9121896. [PMID: 36553340 PMCID: PMC9776716 DOI: 10.3390/children9121896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
This online study investigated the acute effects of a cognitively demanding physical activity (CDPA) vs a simple physical activity (SPA) bout on children’s inhibitory and affective responses. Using a counterbalanced within-subjects’ crossover design, thirty-nine participants aged 9−12 years old (29 boys; Mage = 11 ± 1 years) performed a CDPA and a SPA bout online (via ZOOM) for 15 min. Inhibition (Stroop test) was measured at the baseline, 1 and 30 min following the physical activity (PA) bouts, and self-report measures of affect, mental and physical exertion were taken prior, during and post-PA. Additionally, 31 children took part in semi-structured focus groups to explore the factors affecting their enjoyment. The quantitative results suggest no significant differences on inhibitory responses, affect and physical exertion (all p > 0.05). However, the CDPA induced more mental exertion than the SPA did (p < 0.05). In the focus groups, four themes were identified: physical exertion (e.g., tiredness), social (e.g., teams/groups), environment (e.g., outdoors and competition) and emotional (e.g., fun/enjoyment). Some children (n = 18) reported that the CDPA condition confused them, and to make these activities more interesting and enjoyable, they suggested performing the activities outdoors (n = 15) and including other children as part of a group/team (n = 19). The findings suggest no additional benefit of a cognitively enriched physical activity compared to an SPA bout on the inhibitory responses, affect and enjoyment. Using the instructions provided and given the low cost, the easy administration and the minimal amount of equipment and time involved, either of the approaches may be used in a diversity of contexts (i.e., online, schools or outdoors), and it is worth exploring the effects of these conditions on other aspects of executive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo M. G. Martins
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Emiliano Mazzoli
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Michael J. Duncan
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
| | - Cain C. T. Clark
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
| | - Emma L. J. Eyre
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
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Muntaner-Mas A, Mazzoli E, Abbott G, Mavilidi MF, Galmes-Panades AM. Do Physical Fitness and Executive Function Mediate the Relationship between Physical Activity and Academic Achievement? An Examination Using Structural Equation Modelling. Children 2022; 9:children9060823. [PMID: 35740760 PMCID: PMC9221993 DOI: 10.3390/children9060823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Physical activity health benefits are widely known. However, the association between physical activity, physical fitness, executive function, and academic performance need further investigation. Additionally, one of the literature gaps reveals scarce and mixed findings on what mediators of physical activity may affect academic achievement. Purpose: This investigation aims to provide knowledge about the mediation role of physical fitness and executive function in the association of physical activity with academic achievement in a cohort of Spanish schoolchildren using a structural equation modelling approach. Methods: The data for this cross-sectional study were collected from a convenience sample of children from Spain (Balearic Islands) aged between 9 and 13 years. Physical activity levels were self-reported with the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children; physical fitness was assessed using the International Fitness Scale; executive function was assessed with the Trail Making Test, and children’s achievements were collected from the school records. Structural equation modelling was used to explore the relationship between physical activity, physical fitness, executive function, and academic achievement. Findings: Statistically significant positive direct associations were observed between physical activity and physical fitness (β = 0.46, 95% CI [0.29, 0.64]), physical fitness and executive function (β = 0.28, 95% CI [0.04, 0.52]), and executive function and academic achievement (β = 0.46, 95% CI [0.28, 0.65]), while adjusting for the confounding effects of sex and body mass index. Furthermore, indirect associations were observed between physical activity and executive function mediated by physical fitness (β = 0.13, bias-corrected 95% CI [0.02, 0.31]) and between physical fitness and academic achievement through executive function (β = 0.13, bias-corrected 95% CI [0.03, 0.32]). Conclusions: This investigation adds to the literature with evidence supporting the idea that regular PA leads to improvements in physical fitness and may support cognitive skills and academic performance in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrià Muntaner-Mas
- GICAFE “Physical Activity and Exercise Sciences Research Group”, Faculty of Education, University of Balearic Islands, 07122 Palma, Spain;
- PROFITH “PROmoting FITness and Health Through Physical Activity” Research Group, Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Emiliano Mazzoli
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; (E.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Gavin Abbott
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; (E.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Myrto F. Mavilidi
- School of Education, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia;
- Early Start, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Aina M. Galmes-Panades
- GICAFE “Physical Activity and Exercise Sciences Research Group”, Faculty of Education, University of Balearic Islands, 07122 Palma, Spain;
- CIBEROBN “CIBER Consortium of Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition”, Carlos III Health Research Institute (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Tocci N, Scibinetti P, Mazzoli E, Mavilidi MF, Masci I, Schmidt M, Pesce C. Giving Ideas Some Legs or Legs Some Ideas? Children's Motor Creativity Is Enhanced by Physical Activity Enrichment: Direct and Mediated Paths. Front Psychol 2022; 13:806065. [PMID: 35360626 PMCID: PMC8960453 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.806065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Approaches to foster motor creativity differ according to whether creative movements are assumed to be enacted creative ideas, or solutions to emerging motor problems that arise from task and environmental constraints. The twofold aim of the current study was to investigate whether (1) an enriched physical education (PE) intervention delivered with a joint constraints-led and cognitive stimulation approach fosters motor creativity, and the responsiveness to the intervention is moderated by baseline motor and cognitive skills and sex; (2) the intervention may benefit motor creativity through gains in motor coordination, executive function, and creative thinking. Ninety-five children, aged 6-9 years, participated in a 6-month group randomized trial with specialist-led enriched PE vs. generalist-led conventional PE. Before and after the intervention, Bertsch's Test of Motor Creativity, Movement Assessment Battery for Children, Random Number Generation task and Torrance Test of Creative Thinking were administered. Linear mixed models were run accounting for the random effects of data clusters. Multiple mediation analysis was performed to assess whether motor coordination, executive function and creative thinking mediated any improvement of motor creativity. Results showed that (1) specialist-led enriched PE, compared to generalist-led conventional practice, elicited a more pronounced improvement in all motor creativity dimensions (fluency, flexibility, and originality) independently of baseline levels of motor and cognitive skills and sex; and (2) improved motor creativity was partially mediated by improved motor coordination and, as regards motor flexibility, also by improved inhibitory ability. In conclusion, enriching PE with tailored manipulations of constraints and variability may enhance the ability to create multiple and original task-pertinent movements both directly and through indirect paths. The results are discussed extending to motor creativity a theoretical framework that distinguishes different creativity modes. The intervention may have fostered the generation of creative movements directly through the exposure to variation in constraints, activating the sensorimotor 'flow' mode of creativity that bypasses higher-order cognition, but also indirectly through a systematic and conscious convergence on solutions, activating the 'deliberate' mode of creativity that relies on inhibition to reject common or task-inappropriate movement categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoletta Tocci
- General Psychology Laboratory, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Scibinetti
- General Psychology Laboratory, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Emiliano Mazzoli
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Ilaria Masci
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mirko Schmidt
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Caterina Pesce
- Exercise and Cognition Laboratory, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
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Cassar S, Lander N, Mazzoli E, Salmon J, Symington N. Empowering the future generation of teachers to promote optimal academic outcomes through physical activity: Transform-Ed! J Sci Med Sport 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2021.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Barnett L, Lander N, Mazzoli E, Salmon J. Development and reliability of the Physical Literacy in Children Questionnaire (PL-C Quest): a self-report scale to assess children’s perceived physical literacy. J Sci Med Sport 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2021.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Barnett L, May T, Mazzoli E, Pesce C, Rinehart N, Salmon J, Teo W. Effects of classroom-based active breaks on cognition, sitting and on-task behaviour in children with intellectual disability. J Sci Med Sport 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2021.09.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Condello G, Mazzoli E, Masci I, De Fano A, Ben-Soussan TD, Marchetti R, Pesce C. Fostering Holistic Development with a Designed Multisport Intervention in Physical Education: A Class-Randomized Cross-Over Trial. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18189871. [PMID: 34574794 PMCID: PMC8467800 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Physical education (PE) is acknowledged as a relevant context for holistic child and youth development promotion. However, interventional research mostly builds on individual theories focused on specific outcome domains. This study presents a multisport enriched PE intervention that capitalizes on the intersection of different theory-based approaches to motor, cognitive and socio-emotional skills development promotion. With a cross-over design, 181 fifth graders, coming from a past class-randomized trial of enriched or traditional PE in their 1st–3rd grade, were stratified (based on their previous PE experience) and class-randomized to multisport enriched PE or control group. They completed pre-post assessments in motor and sport skills, cool (inhibition, working memory) and hot (decision making) executive functions, prosocial (empathy, cooperation) and antisocial (quick-temperedness, disruptiveness) behaviors. Children in the enriched PE group showed advantages in motor and prosocial skills after the intervention, which were linked by a mediation path, and an interactive effect of past and actual PE experience on decision making but no differential effects on other variables. The results suggest that a PE intervention designed with an integrative theory base, although not allowing disentangling the contribution of individual components to its efficacy, may help pursue benefits in motor and non-motor domains relevant to whole-child development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Condello
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Emiliano Mazzoli
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong 3125, Australia;
| | - Ilaria Masci
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy;
| | - Antonio De Fano
- Behavioral Imaging and Neural Dynamics Center, Università degli Studi G. d’Annunzio Chieti e Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education, and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, 06081 Assisi, Italy;
- The Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Illan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
| | | | - Caterina Pesce
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-063-6733-3366
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Mazzoli E, Salmon J, Teo WP, Pesce C, He J, Ben-Soussan TD, Barnett LM. Breaking up classroom sitting time with cognitively engaging physical activity: Behavioural and brain responses. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253733. [PMID: 34260606 PMCID: PMC8279315 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Classroom-based active breaks are a feasible and effective way to reduce and break up sitting time, and to potentially benefit physical health in school children. However, the effect of active breaks on children's cognitive functions and brain activity remains unclear. OBJECTIVE We investigated the impact of an active break intervention on typically developing children's cognitive functions and brain activity, sitting/standing/stepping, on-task behaviour, and enjoyment. METHODS Up to 141 children, aged between 6 and 8 years (46% girls), were included, although about half of them completed two of the assessments (n = 77, working memory; n = 67, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex haemodynamic response). Classrooms from two consenting schools were randomly allocated to a six-week simple or cognitively engaging active break intervention. Classrooms from another school acted as a control group. The main analyses used linear mixed models, clustered at the class level and adjusted for sex and age, to investigate the effects of the interventions on response inhibition, lapses of attention, working memory, event-related brain haemodynamic response (dorsolateral prefrontal cortex). The mediating effects of sitting/standing/stepping on cognition/brain activity were also explored. To test intervention fidelity, we investigated differences by group on the change values in children's sitting, standing, and moving patterns during class/school time using linear mixed models. Generalized linear mixed models clustered at the individual level were used to examine on-task behaviour data. For the intervention groups only, we also assessed children's perceived enjoyment, physical exertion and mental exertion related to the active breaks and compared the results using independent t-tests. RESULTS There was a significantly greater positive change in the proportion of deoxygenated haemoglobin in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of children assigned to cognitively engaging active breaks compared to the control group (B = 1.53 × 10-07, 95% CI [0.17 × 10-07, 2.90 × 10-07]), which under the same cognitive performance is suggestive of improved neural efficiency. Mixed models showed no significant effects on response inhibition, lapses of attention, working memory. The mediation analysis revealed that the active breaks positively affected response inhibition via a change in sitting and standing time. The sitting, standing, and moving patterns and on-task behaviour were positively affected by the active breaks at end of trial, but not at mid-trial. Children in both intervention groups showed similarly high levels of enjoyment of active breaks. CONCLUSION Cognitively engaging active breaks may improve brain efficiency in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, the neural substrate of executive functions, as well as response inhibition, via effects partially mediated by the change in sitting/stepping time. Active breaks can effectively reduce sitting and increase standing/stepping and improve on-task behaviour, but the regular implementation of these activities might require time for teachers to become familiar with. Further research is needed to confirm what type of active break best facilitates cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Mazzoli
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Jo Salmon
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Wei-Peng Teo
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Physical Education and Sports Science (PESS) Academic Group, National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Caterina Pesce
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Roma ’Foro Italico’, Rome, Italy
| | - Jason He
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, Assisi, Italy
| | - Lisa Michele Barnett
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
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Mazzoli E, Salmon J, Pesce C, Teo WP, Rinehart N, May T, Barnett LM. Effects of classroom-based active breaks on cognition, sitting and on-task behaviour in children with intellectual disability: a pilot study. J Intellect Disabil Res 2021; 65:464-488. [PMID: 33719112 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Classroom-based active breaks can help typically developing children reduce sitting, increase physical activity and improve cognitive functions and on-task behaviour. Yet, this strategy has not been tested in children with intellectual disability (ID) - a population who are insufficiently active. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 5-week active breaks intervention on cognitive functions and on-task behaviour in schoolchildren with ID. METHODS Twenty-four children, aged between 8 and 12 years (37.5% girls), were recruited. Children's cognitive functions (response inhibition, lapses of attention, interference and working memory) were measured at baseline and end of trial using computer-based tests. Sitting, standing and movement patterns were assessed with inclinometers, and on-task behaviour was directly observed in the classroom before and after active breaks, at baseline, mid-trial and end of trial. Linear mixed models were used to investigate the intervention effects on cognitive functions and sedentary patterns; generalised linear mixed models were used to analyse on-task behaviour data. RESULTS A significant time × group interaction was found for working memory favouring the intervention (B = 11.56, 95% confidence interval [1.92, 21.21]). No significant effects were found in relation to the other measures of children's cognition or on-task behaviour. Stepping time and bouts of sitting were positively affected. CONCLUSIONS Classroom-based active breaks can increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour in children with ID and might also benefit their working memory. Further research is required to clarify the effects on cognition and to investigate whether this strategy has other benefits in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Mazzoli
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - J Salmon
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - C Pesce
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome 'Foro Italico', Rome, Italy
| | - W-P Teo
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Physical Education and Sports Science (PESS) Academic Group, National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - N Rinehart
- Deakin Child Study Centre, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - T May
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - L M Barnett
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Keye S, Edwards CG, Cannavale CN, Iwinski SJ, Reeser GE, Walk AD, Mazzoli E, Barnett LM, Khan NA. Parent-report Of Children’s Motor Skills Are Selectively Related To Interference Control Among School-aged Children. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2020. [DOI: 10.1249/01.mss.0000680948.73005.ac] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Lander N, Koorts H, Mazzoli E, Moncrieff K, Salmon J. The feasibility and impact of embedding pedagogical strategies targeting physical activity within undergraduate teacher education: Transform-Ed!. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2019; 5:125. [PMID: 31893128 PMCID: PMC6839192 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-019-0507-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Low levels of physical activity and high levels of sedentary behaviour are pervasive, especially in schools. Pre-service teacher education is pivotal to school and educational reform but is an under-studied setting for physical activity and sedentary behaviour intervention research. The objective of this pilot study was to test the feasibility and potential impact of embedding evidence-based active pedagogy based on an adapted version of Transform-Us!, Transform-Ed! in one core unit of an undergraduate teacher education degree. Methods Baseline and follow-up measures (i.e. surveys) were conducted with Bachelor of Education (Primary) pre-service teachers who received the Transform-Ed! intervention and academic educators who delivered the intervention. Focus groups of senior academics and telephone interviews with primary school principals examined perceptions of intervention feasibility and explored potential real-world relevance and impact of pre-service teachers training in active pedagogy. Results After 12 weeks, pre-service teachers (n = 218) were significantly more willing (pre–post change Δ = 0.54, 95% CI [0.16, 0.91]), confident (Δ = 1.40, 95% CI [0.89, 1.91]) and competent (Δ = 2.39, 95% CI [1.85, 2.92]) to deliver Transform-Ed!, had more positive feelings about the impact of physical activity on student outcomes (Δ = 2.05, 95% CI [1.58, 2.52]), and perceived fewer barriers to integrating Transform-Ed! into current and future teaching (Δ = − 7.26, 95% CI [− 8.88, − 5.64]). Four major themes emerged from the focus groups (n = 9) and interviews (n = 5) around participant perceptions of Transform-Ed!: (i) acceptability and appropriateness, (ii) need (tertiary level), (iii) need (primary level) and (iv) overcoming challenges. Conclusion The Transform-Ed! pilot study demonstrated promising results across multiple participant levels, as it was perceived to be feasible, acceptable and appropriate by pre-service teachers, academics and school principals. The findings have direct implications for the progression of Transform-Ed! from pilot to a future definitive trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Lander
- 1Faculty of Arts and Education, School of Education, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC Australia
| | - Harriet Koorts
- 2Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC Australia
| | - Emiliano Mazzoli
- 3Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC Australia
| | - Kate Moncrieff
- 1Faculty of Arts and Education, School of Education, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC Australia
| | - Jo Salmon
- 2Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC Australia
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Mazzoli E, Salmon J, Teo W, Pesce C, He J, Ben-Soussan T, Barnett L. The mediating effects of breaking up classroom sitting with cognitively engaging or simple active breaks on children's cognition. J Sci Med Sport 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2019.08.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Visser EL, Mazzoli E, Hinkley T, Lander NJ, Utesch T, Barnett LM. Are children with higher self-reported wellbeing and perceived motor competence more physically active? A longitudinal study. J Sci Med Sport 2019; 23:270-275. [PMID: 31575502 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2019.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Self-perceptions such as perceived motor competence and psychosocial wellbeing have been identified as important to children's physical activity. The study's purpose was to explore whether perceived motor competence and psychosocial wellbeing were determinants of physical activity, one year after a baseline assessment. DESIGN Longitudinal study. METHODS A total of 134 children (65.7% boys, 34.3% girls) aged 6-7 years at baseline (2016), and 7-8 years at follow-up (2017) were included in this study. Pearson's correlations assessed associations at baseline and follow-up between moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) (accelerometers) and (i) total perceived motor competence and subdomains (the pictorial scale of Perceived Movement Skill Competence) and (ii) psychosocial wellbeing and sub-domains - KidKINDL KINDer Lebensqualitätsfragebogen: Children Quality of Life Questionnaire (KINDLR). Variables identified as significant in Pearson's correlations were included in mixed model analyses, adjusting for accelerometer wear time, sex and age. RESULTS Baseline perceived object control skills was associated with MVPA at follow-up (r=0.38, p<0.001), but perceived locomotor skills were not. Self-esteem was the only subdomain of psychosocial wellbeing that demonstrated significant association with MVPA at baseline (r=0.21, p<0.05). Perceived object control (B=1.36, p=0.019, 95% CI [0.23, 2.50]) and self-esteem (B=0.32, p=0.001, 95% CI [0.13, 0.50]) positively predicted MVPA; albeit with small effects. CONCLUSIONS Focusing on improving children's perceived object control and self-reported self-esteem may contribute to children's physical activity participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebonee L Visser
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Australia.
| | - Emiliano Mazzoli
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Australia
| | - Trina Hinkley
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition, Deakin University, Australia
| | | | | | - Lisa M Barnett
- Institute of Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Australia
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Mazzoli E, Teo WP, Salmon J, Pesce C, He J, Ben-Soussan TD, Barnett LM. Associations of Class-Time Sitting, Stepping and Sit-to-Stand Transitions with Cognitive Functions and Brain Activity in Children. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2019; 16:ijerph16091482. [PMID: 31027380 PMCID: PMC6539435 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16091482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Previous research showed that children’s physical activity is positively related to executive functions, whilst screen time shows negative associations. However, it is unclear how school-based sitting time and transitions from sitting to standing relate to cognition. We investigated the relationship between class time sitting/stepping/sit-to-stand transitions and cognitive functions in Grade 1–2 children. Overall, 149 children (7.7 ± 0.6 years old, 54% boys) participated. Measures included class time sitting/stepping/sit-to-stand transitions and: (i) response inhibition (i.e., response time and accuracy); (ii) lapses of attention; (iii) working memory; and (iv) brain activity (cortical haemodynamic response). Linear mixed-models, adjusting for age, sex, and clustering at the classroom level, found that more sitting time was associated with higher lapses of attention (β = 0.12, p < 0.05). Children who stepped more had quicker inhibition response time (β = −0.95, p < 0.01); however, they were less accurate in their responses (β = −0.30, p < 0.05) and this was also observed with sit-to-stand transitions (β = −0.26, p < 0.05). No associations were found with brain activity. In conclusion, reducing and breaking up sitting may help keep children focused, but the evidence regarding response inhibition is unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Mazzoli
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia.
| | - Wei-Peng Teo
- Physical Education and Sports Science (PESS) Academic Group, National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637616, Singapore.
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia.
| | - Jo Salmon
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia.
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia.
| | - Caterina Pesce
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Italian University of Sport and Movement, 00135 Rome, Italy.
| | - Jason He
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia.
| | - Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, 06081 Assisi, Italy.
| | - Lisa M Barnett
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia.
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia.
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Mazzoli E, Koorts H, Salmon J, Pesce C, May T, Teo WP, Barnett LM. Feasibility of breaking up sitting time in mainstream and special schools with a cognitively challenging motor task. J Sport Health Sci 2019; 8:137-148. [PMID: 30997260 PMCID: PMC6451043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children spend ≤70% of the school day sitting in class. Classroom-based active breaks can benefit children's physical health, but if the breaks are cognitively demanding (i.e., combine physical exertion and mental engagement), they may also improve focus and cognitive functions. Teachers and students play a crucial role in the successful implementation of active breaks, and their perspectives are critical to the feasibility of these strategies. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of implementing a cognitively challenging motor task as an active break in mainstream and special primary schools. METHODS A total of 5 teachers in 2 mainstream schools and 7 teachers in 1 special school (attended by children with neurodevelopmental disorders) attended a 20-min training on how to implement a 4-min cognitively challenging active break, before conducting a feasibility trial (twice a day for 1 week). To understand individual perceptions, one-on-one semistructured interviews were conducted before and after the trial with teachers, and focus group interviews were conducted with typically developing children after the trial. Questions were based on a predefined framework for feasibility studies. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analyzed in NVivo 11 using a framework approach. A total of 12 teachers (11 females; 7 between 20 and 34years old) and 34 children (16 girls; 9.3 ± 1.7years, mean ± SD) participated in the interviews. RESULTS In mainstream schools, teachers viewed the cognitively challenging motor task as appropriate and potentially beneficial for children's health and focus. Children reported enjoying the active breaks. Teachers in special schools viewed the task as complex and potentially frustrating for children. In both school types, children's disruptive behavior and lack of time were seen as the main potential barriers to implementation. The use of music, videos, visual cards, and support staff were noted as potential facilitators. CONCLUSION The cognitively challenging motor task was a feasible way to interrupt children's sitting time and promote physical activity in mainstream schools, but required changes in special schools. Further research could investigate the effectiveness of these types of task interruptions on children's physical and cognitive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Mazzoli
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Harriet Koorts
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Jo Salmon
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Caterina Pesce
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Italian University of Sport and Movement “Foro Italico”, Rome, 00135, Italy
| | - Tamara May
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Wei-Peng Teo
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Lisa Michele Barnett
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
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