Title
Exploring the Connection Between Physical Activity and On-Task Behavior of Kindergarten Students
Date of Award
2017
Document Type
Research Project
Degree Name
Master of Education (MEd)
Department
Education
Abstract
Increased academic demands on kindergarten students require them to be on-task for longer periods of time. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of increased physical activity breaks on kindergarten students’ on-task behavior during small group and independent center work. This mixed methods study employed an experimental design with an initial baseline phase followed by a physical activity treatment phase. Data was collected using a planned activity check observation method and observational field notes to compare on-task behavior during the two phases of the study. Data analysis indicated that physical activity breaks was associated with improved on-task behavior directly after the physical activity. When longer periods of time elapsed between the physical activity and data collection observation, on-task behavior showed no-change when compared to the baseline phase data. Results point to the benefits of physical activity breaks for promoting on-task behavior immediately after the break is given.
Recommended Citation
Meyer, JoAnn, "Exploring the Connection Between Physical Activity and On-Task Behavior of Kindergarten Students" (2017). M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects. 8.
https://scholarworks.umf.maine.edu/ech_projects/8
Comments
Affiliation: W.G. Mallett School, RSU 9