Exploring learning outcomes among undergraduate kinesiology students in response to an inclusive physical activity promotion message assignment

Abstract

Numerous professional bodies and curricular models in kinesiology call for the development of undergraduates’ cultural competency. In short, a culturally competent professional (a) mitigates personal biases from adversely affecting others, and (b) is aware of how societal patterns marginalize people (e.g., unquestioned norms; Gill, 2007). The present study aimed to evaluate the extent to which undergraduate students demonstrated learning in response to completing an inclusive physical activity promotion message assignment, which included a focus on designing materials inclusive of people with disabilities. A scholarship of teaching and learning approach was adopted to critically evaluate and reflect on an assignment used in an undergraduate kinesiology course. This case study drew on artifacts from a convenience sample of 10 undergraduate students enrolled in an introduction to adapted physical activity course. A descriptive discourse analysis was conducted of students’ reflections about what they learned from the assignment. Student responses were appraised with Fink’s (2013) taxonomy of significant learning for evidence of learning across six domains: i.e., foundational knowledge, application, integration, human dimension, caring, and self-determination. Student responses were coded and verified. Consensus was reached on all discrepancies. Student reflections signaled learning across four domains: foundational knowledge (n = 9), application (n = 3), integration (n = 5), and human dimensions (n = 6). Developments in the caring or self-determination domains were not evident. The findings indicate potential for the assignment to enhance Kinesiology curricula. As teacher-researchers, we discuss the findings in relation to further development of the assignment to better promote cultural competency.