Ecological Considerations in Sustaining Whole of School Health Approaches: A Follow-Up Study

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: Whole of School Approaches and Teacher Preparation in Physical Education

Abstract

Whole-of-school health approaches or Comprehensive School Physical Activity Programs (CSPAP) are increasing in popularity, but little is known about the factors that impact sustainability. Based on the health ecological model, a key objective of this study was to identify sustainability support areas. Data were collected from stakeholders using a survey at two time points (N=67) and semi-structured interviews (n=43) with a card-sort to better understand influences of ecological factors in sustaining whole-of-school approaches. Ecological levels were perceived differently across time except for policy, which remained relatively constant. From most to least influential were individuals, organizations, interpersonal relationships, communities, and policies. A holistic approach and support at interpersonal, community, and policy levels are necessary to sustain whole-of-school programs in schools.

Authors

• Kahyun Nam, Arizona State University

• Pamela Hodges Kulinna

• Shannon C. Mulhearn, University of Nebraska - Kearney

• Hyeonho Yu, Arizona State University Polytechnic

• Janelle Marie Griffo, Arizona State University

• Aaron Mason, Arizona State University