Refining a Sport-Based Public Health Intervention in Rural Schools
Author Information
Author(s): McKenna G. Major, Janette M. Watkins, Janelle M. Goss, Derek W. Craig, Zack Waggoner, Vanessa M. Martinez Kercher, Kyle A. Kercher, Pantelis T. Nikolaidis, Paul B. Tchounwou
Primary Institution: Indiana University
Hypothesis
Can intervention mapping improve the design and implementation of a sport-based public health initiative for rural middle school children?
Conclusion
The study found that using intervention mapping led to a more effective and scalable sport-based public health intervention for rural children.
Supporting Evidence
- 91% of participants found the program exciting.
- Significant improvements were observed in the 6-Minute Walk Test.
- High retention rate of 94.3% in the second pilot study.
- Participants showed significant increases in autonomy and social competence.
Takeaway
This study shows that planning sports programs for kids can be better when you ask them what they want and use a step-by-step approach to make it happen.
Methodology
The study used a mixed-methods approach, including intervention mapping steps to develop and pilot test the Hoosier Sport program.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in stakeholder feedback due to power dynamics between adults and children.
Limitations
The complexity of intervention mapping may hinder practical application and stakeholder engagement.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 6th–7th graders, aged 10 to 13 years, with 58% females and 42% males.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.026
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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