ERIC Number: EJ1056513
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2011
Pages: 24
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1942-2504
EISSN: N/A
Technology: The Problem or the Solution to Childhood Obesity
Silverstone, Susan; Teatum, Jim
American Journal of Business Education, v4 n1 p37-60 2011
One-third of the population of US children is considered obese and two-thirds of the adult population falls into the same category. These figures have tripled over the last 30 years. This demonstrates that the existing strategies to combat obesity do not work and it is time to look for alternatives. The recommendation is to turn the problem into a solution--give children an activity they WANT TO DO, NOT HAVE TO DO. Today's younger generation is "hard wired to technology", so take advantage of this fact. Several entrepreneurs have developed new technologies that combine physical activity, technology, and learning that "appeal" to this Generation Z and they are demonstrating promising results. In this paper, we have included details of the childhood obesity epidemic, the problem, costs and consequences, and have provided a new successful avenue to pursue. Results to date are positive and encouraging. We have identified a new strategy which, in a limited time, has been embraced by children, incorporates new technology, and has the potential for huge benefits for those who choose.
Descriptors: Obesity, Child Health, Physical Activity Level, Life Style, Information Technology, Technology Uses in Education, Community Programs, Federal Programs, Public Health, Body Composition, Body Weight, Geographic Location, At Risk Persons, Etiology, Eating Habits, Genetics, Psychological Patterns, Family Influence, Socioeconomic Influences, Age Differences, Gender Differences, Racial Differences, Environmental Influences, Costs, Ethnic Groups, Barriers, School Role, Neurology, Self Esteem, Child Behavior, Financial Support
Clute Institute. 6901 South Pierce Street Suite 239, Littleton, CO 80128. Tel: 303-904-4750; Fax: 303-978-0413; e-mail: Staff@CluteInstitute.com; Web site: http://www.cluteinstitute.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A