Restructuring a University Health-Related Physical Activity Course with Technology: A Design-Based Research

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the restructuring process of a university health-related physical activity course with technology and its impact on teaching & learning practices. Using a design-based research approach, data were collected in five semesters by applying the technology integration strategies iteratively. Beginning with needs assessment, the longitudinal study continued with the first and second pilot, and the process ended with improvements in design and implementation phases. Data were collected through class observations, field notes, and interviews with the students and the instructor. Thematic content analyses were carried out with Nvivo software. Data and researcher triangulation were done for reliability and validity. Findings indicated that technology enhancement would contribute to the quality of health-related physical activity courses and the impact of technology integration was documented in detail. Implications and recommendations were given to stakeholders of the education environment; researchers, practitioners, administrators, technology coaches, and policymakers.

Technology-Supported Physical Activity Course for Increasing Physical Activity Levels of University Students: System Development and Pilot Implementation

“…Therefore, the new DP 9 is "technology-supported university courses for increasing students' physical activity levels should be embedded in the course as class activities, assignments, and requirements". This new design principle is supported by previous research showing that well-prepared integration of technology into the learning process is crucial [41,42].…”