Development and evaluation of WinSport’s IPLAY program: A mixed methods examination of a physical literacy-based initiative for newcomer youths

Physical literacy (PL) programs focus on developing competence, confidence, and the knowledge to be physically active (PA) across the lifespan. Given that current rates of PA among children are continuing to decline, with only 9% of children meeting the Canadian PA guidelines, PL programs provide a unique opportunity to facilitate a lifelong interest in PA. The partner organization, WinSport, is interested in developing, rigorously evaluating, and iterating a community outreach program which seeks to promote health, PA, and engagement among new immigrant youths. However, WinSport currently lacks the research capacity to so. Thus, the aim of this project is to use a mixed methods approach to understand and iteratively improve the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of a Physical Literacy-based program targeting new immigrant youths. This MITACS proposal focuses on the qualitative exploration, which will include a grounded theory approach to inquire about past experiences with physical activities in Canada, self-assessments of each PL domain, and the general expectations of the program.

Faculty Supervisor:

Matthew Kwan

Student:

Partner:

Calgary Olympic Development Association

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Arts, entertainment and recreation

University:

Brock University

Program: