ERIC Number: EJ1310117
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0744-8481
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Undergraduate Students' Physical Activity Levels and Experiences in a Service-Learning Dog Walking Class: An Exploratory Pilot Study
Sartore-Baldwin, Melanie L.; Das, Bhibha M.; Schwab, Lacey. M.
Journal of American College Health, v69 n6 p617-624 2021
Objective: To investigate the physical activity levels and experiences of students enrolled in a service-learning dog walking class. Participants: College students (N = 10) from a rural university in the Eastern United States (age = 20.8 years ±1.2; 80% female; 90% White). Method: Students wore NL-1000 pedometers twice a week for 50 minutes for ten weeks. They also completed reflection papers at the end of the class. Pedometer data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel and the papers were analyzed through inductive coding. Results: Students obtained approximately 40% of their recommended daily physical activity requirements during class time. Reflection papers revealed that student beliefs about shelter dogs were challenged and that their primary motivations for attending class involved the physical activity needs of the dogs. Conclusions: Incorporating a service component into a physical activity course whereby the physical activity needs of others are the focus can be beneficial for all involved.
Descriptors: Undergraduate Students, Physical Activity Level, Rural Schools, Service Learning, Animals, Student Attitudes, Student Motivation, Program Effectiveness
Taylor & Francis. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A

Peer reviewed
Direct link
