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School Physical Activity Intervention Effect on Adolescents' Performance in Mathematics
David R Lubans1, Mark R Beauchamp2, Thierno M O Diallo3
1Priority Research Center in Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Education, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, AUSTRALIA.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|August 2, 2018
Summary
A school-based physical activity intervention improved adolescent math performance. However, the effect was small and not linked to changes in physical activity or engagement during math lessons.
Area of Science:
- Educational Psychology
- Sports Science
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Physical activity interventions in schools are increasingly studied for their potential impact on academic outcomes.
- Adolescents, particularly those in low socioeconomic areas, may benefit from programs promoting physical activity during physical education (PE).
- Understanding the mechanisms linking physical activity to academic performance is crucial for effective intervention design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of a school-based physical activity intervention on adolescents' mathematics performance.
- To explore potential mediating factors, including physical activity levels and student engagement, that might explain the intervention's impact on math skills.
Main Methods:
- A cluster randomized controlled trial involving 1173 grade 8 students in Western Sydney, Australia.
- The intervention focused on increasing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during PE and enhancing motivation toward PE.
- Mathematics performance was assessed before and after the intervention, alongside measures of MVPA and student engagement in math lessons.
Main Results:
- The intervention demonstrated a small-to-medium positive effect on mathematics performance (β = 0.16, P < 0.001).
- A significant intervention effect was found for MVPA during PE lessons (β = 0.59, P < 0.001).
- No significant associations were observed between changes in MVPA or engagement mediators and mathematics performance.
Conclusions:
- The 'Activity and Motivation in Physical EDucation' intervention positively influenced adolescent mathematics performance.
- The observed benefits on math performance were modest and not explained by the measured changes in physical activity or student engagement.
- Further research is needed to identify the precise mechanisms through which physical activity interventions impact academic achievement in adolescents.