Development of the System for Observing Student Movement in Academic Routines and Transitions (SOSMART)

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Educational Psychology
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Increasing sedentary behavior in children is a public health concern.
• Whole-of-school approaches are encouraged to promote physical activity.
• Movement integration in classrooms is a key strategy for increasing physical activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the System for Observing Student Movement in Academic Routines and Transitions (SOSMART).
• To assess the reliability and validity of SOSMART for measuring movement integration in elementary classrooms.

Main Methods:

• A conceptual framework was developed using literature, classroom videos, and expert Delphi surveys.
• The SOSMART system includes 11 movement integration variables and uses a 20-second interval recording format.
• Reliability and construct validity were assessed in 12 elementary classrooms using interval agreement and accelerometer data.

Main Results:

• Intraobserver reliability was high, with 97.5% agreement.
• Construct validity was supported for 8 out of 11 movement integration variables.
• SOSMART demonstrated potential for objective measurement of movement integration.

Conclusions:

• SOSMART is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing movement integration in elementary schools.
• The system can provide objective data to support whole-of-school physical activity initiatives.
• Further research may refine the instrument for broader application.