Changes in the perceived quality by undergraduate students of a university sports service: A comparison of two measures

Abstract

University physical activity is vital when talking about healthy lifestyle habits within a population which often does not have enough time or adequate space to do it for different reasons such as academics, timetables, etc. Because of this, having a quality sports service within the university is fundamental when motivating students to participate in physical activity. This research aimed to measure the quality levels perceived by students who use the sports services offered by the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Chile. This study was framed under a quantitative approach with a descriptive scope. The sample consisted of 697 university students. Information was collected using the adapted version of the SERVQUAL instrument. The results reveal that the student's perception in dimensions related to the treatment by the teachers in charge of the workshops and activities, such as responsiveness and security, are satisfactory, with results close to excellence. To a lesser extent, empathy and part service reliability when participating in the workshops offered. Finally, the great deficit is found in the dimension of tangible elements, showing problems of modernity in spaces and the dissemination of effective means of communication.