Applied Learning Activity for Health and Fitness Students to Advocate for School Playground and Gymnasium Safety

Brian F. Geiger; Jane Roy; Sandra K. Sims; Jason S. Fulmore; Karen A. Werner

doi:10.32398/cjhp.v7iSI.1999

Brian F. Geiger Health and Physical Education Programs, Department of Human Studies, College of Arts and Sciences, School of Education, University of Alabama at Birmingham & Center for Educational Accountability, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Jane Roy Health and Physical Education Programs, Department of Human Studies, College of Arts and Sciences, School of Education, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Sandra K. Sims Health and Physical Education Programs, Department of Human Studies, College of Arts and Sciences, School of Education, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Jason S. Fulmore Health and Physical Education Programs, Department of Human Studies, College of Arts and Sciences, School of Education, University of Alabama at Birmingham & Center for Educational Accountability, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Karen A. Werner Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32398/cjhp.v7iSI.1999

Abstract

Playground accidents are a leading cause of injury to children at school and home. Health and physical education faculty and students from a university school of education and college of nursing collaborated with wellness team members in a public school system to complete a systematic planning process. The aim was to enhance the school health program and reduce risk of injuries. University faculty mentored health and physical education students as they developed professional competencies related to program planning and advocacy. Students identified safety hazards in 52 school/community playgrounds and 45 gymnasiums, and reported maintenance issues to reduce the risk of injuries. Teachers, parents, students and community residents can learn to assess playground and gymnasium safety, identify hazards, and plan improvements to the school health environment.