The effects of an in-school physical activity program on school improvement

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
David A. Adeimy Jr. (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Pam Brown

Abstract: Middle Schools in the Richmond County, NC school district are required to develop school improvement plans (SIPs) to address the needs of each school according to national, state, and local initiatives. Ellerbe Middle School was no exception. One of several strategies, the Ellerbe Middle School intramural program was implemented to address variables highlighted on the SIP. The purpose of this research was to examine and assess the impact of the intramural program on school improvement Ellerbe Middle School. The program was implemented primarily using the Sport Education Model. It utilized team sports and fell into a natural progression of physical education/team sport opportunities at the school. It was unique compared to other programs, allowing for extracurricular activity during school hours. This eliminated the need for additional transportation of students to and from school to participate. The study yielded mixed results, with positive findings coming from student surveys showing perceptions of the benefits in areas such as 1) fun, 2) winning, 3) academics, 4) being active, and 5) team collaboration. Statistical testing proved inconclusive in supporting improvements in attendance, behavior, and academic performance during intramural participation. Researcher observation highlights included leadership opportunities, successful play, and communication. It is the hope that the results of this study will lead to modeling and replication of intramural programs in other area middle schools. Despite not showing statistical significance, many positive outcomes related to the intramural program were reported by the students and researcher, such as perceived academic readiness, fun, leadership opportunities and team membership.

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 2020
Keywords
Attendance, Intramurals, Middle School, Physical Activity Programs, School Improvement
Subjects
School improvement programs $z North Carolina $z Richmond County
Intramural sports $z North Carolina $z Richmond County
Middle schools $z North Carolina $z Richmond County

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