ERIC Number: EJ802065
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2008-Jul
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
Reference Count: 40
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0273-5024
Effects of Choice on Student Motivation and Physical Activity Behavior in Physical Education
Ward, Jillian; Wilkinson, Carol; Graser, Susan Vincent; Prusak, Keven A.
Journal of Teaching in Physical Education, v27 n3 p385-398 Jul 2008
This study examined the effects of increased autonomy on (a) self-determination and (b) physical activity levels. Seventh- and eighth-grade girls (N = 122) in four classes participated in two fitness units (one allowing choice of activities, the other no-choice). The order of the units was counterbalanced, so that two classes participated in the choice unit first, and the other two participated in the no-choice unit first. The abridged Situational Intrinsic Motivation Scale (SIMS) was administered after each unit. Pedometers were used to measure step counts during both units. Overall, self-determination was higher in the choice unit. The repeated measures analysis also indicated that girls who experienced the choice unit first, and then were denied the opportunity to make choices had the lowest levels of self-determination. The results provide empirical support for the theoretical prediction that increased autonomy yields higher levels of self-determination. (Contains 1 figure and 3 tables.)
Descriptors: Physical Education, Physical Activities, Females, Physical Activity Level, Student Motivation, Personal Autonomy, Grade 7, Grade 8, Physical Fitness, Measures (Individuals), Electronic Equipment, Self Determination
Human Kinetics, Inc. 1607 North Market Street, Champaign, IL 61820. Tel: 800-474-4457; Fax: 217-351-1549; e-mail: info@hkusa.com; Web site: http://www.humankinetics.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Grade 7; Grade 8
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers: N/A

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