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Stability balls and students with attention and hyperactivity concerns: implications for on-task and in-seat behavior
Alicia L Fedewa1, Heather E Erwin
1Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, 238 Dickey Hall, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0017, USA. alicia.fedewa@uky.edu
Summary
Stability balls improved attention and on-task behavior while reducing hyperactivity in students. Teachers preferred stability balls over traditional chairs for classroom use.
Area of Science:
- Educational Psychology
- Child Development
- Special Education
Background:
- Students with attention and hyperactivity concerns often face challenges in traditional classroom settings.
- Alternative seating options are being explored to improve student engagement and behavior.
- Stability balls offer a potential solution for enhancing focus and reducing disruptive movements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of stability balls on the in-seat and on-task behavior of students with attention and hyperactivity concerns.
- To compare the effectiveness of stability balls versus traditional chairs in a general education classroom setting.
Main Methods:
- A single-subject A-B continuous time-series design was employed.
- Observations were conducted 3 times per week for 12 weeks with 8 students in 4th and 5th grades.
- Data were analyzed using standardized measures and classroom observations, comparing pre- and post-intervention phases.
Main Results:
- Stability ball intervention led to increased attention levels among students.
- Hyperactivity levels significantly decreased following the introduction of stability balls.
- Students demonstrated increased time on task and remained seated or on the ball for longer durations.
Conclusions:
- Stability balls are an effective intervention for improving attention and on-task behavior in students with attention and hyperactivity issues.
- Teachers expressed a preference for stability balls over chairs, indicating positive social validity.
- The findings support the use of stability balls as a beneficial tool in general education classrooms.
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