Open AccessUnderstanding Nutrition Education and Physical Activity Instruction in Rural Elementary Schools
Author(s) -
Allison Harris,
Jessica D. Linnell
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
journal of extension
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1077-5315
pISSN - 0022-0140
DOI - 10.34068/joe.59.04.11
Subject(s) - professional development , physical education , medical education , psychology , nutrition education , physical activity , medicine , pedagogy , mathematics education , gerontology , physical therapy
We surveyed K-6 classroom teachers in four rural counties in Oregon to ascertain current nutrition and physical activity and/or physical education (PA/PE) instruction, barriers to teaching these subjects, and interest and need for professional development. Although most respondents reported teaching nutrition and PA/PE in their classrooms and appear to place high importance on teaching these subjects, reported delivery time was low. Extension can play an influential role in ensuring that students receive adequate nutrition and PA/PE instructional time by providing support to teachers through professional development, direct education in the classroom, and policy, systems and environmental change.