Perceptions of the potential contribution of Active Video Games to school physical education in Hong Kong children and adolescents

Abstract

To explore children’s perception of the contribution of Active Video Games (AVG) to school PE, 360 Chinese children (8-15 yrs old) were recruited from a shopping mall. Questionnaires were administered to investigate children’s (1) perceptions of AVG, (2) attitudes toward AVG if adopted in school PE, (3) perceptions of the association between AVG and PE objectives, and (4) age and gender differences. Children perceived that AVG are enjoyable and could increase their physical fitness, energy expenditure, and improve sport skills and knowledge. They rated AVG high in social- psychological and learning values. The correlation between children’s perception between AVG and school PE objectives was moderate. Compared to secondary students, primary students reported more positive attitudes toward AVG and higher self- reported PA levels.