Voices from Pupil Participation in the Health Promotion Intervention “Pulse for Learning and Health [PuLH]” in Primary and Middle School

Eva-Carin Lindgren, Katarina Haraldsson and Linn Håman
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Eva-Carin Lindgren: School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, 30118 Halmstad, Sweden
Katarina Haraldsson: Department of Research and Development within Education, Region Jönköping County, 55111 Jönköping, Sweden
Linn Håman: School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, 30118 Halmstad, Sweden

IJERPH, 2019, vol. 16, issue 22, 1-16

Abstract: In order to improve the learning conditions and health of schoolchildren, the Pulse for Learning and Health [PuLH] program in Sweden has introduced additional mandatory moderate to vigorous physical activity [MVPA] that lasts for 30 min three times a week. The PE teachers used a child-centered coaching approach to support all pupils. The aim of this study was to explore pupils’ perception and experience of PuLH that has been implemented in primary and middle schools in Sweden. We have taken into account children’s rights perspectives and adopted an exploratory and interpretive approach. In total, 73 pupils (34 girls, 39 boys, grades 4–9) were recruited through purposive sampling. 13 focus group interviews ( n = 71) and individual interviews ( n = 2) were carried out. All interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The analysis resulted in three major themes: ‘promotes academic performance and a learning school environment’, ‘promotes health and well-being’, and ‘individual and structural barriers’. From children’s perspective, the results highlight the importance of teachers and principals taking into account the interests and needs of all pupils, to have a well-planned MVPA intervention and to deal with issues regarding body ideals.

Keywords: children’s perspective; coaching; health promotion; learning; MVPA; pupils; well-being (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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