Drs. Mary Rudisill, a Wayne T. Smith distinguished professor and department head, and Leah Robinson, an assistant professor of exercise science, collaborated with Dr. Jacqueline Goodway of Ohio State University. They examined the effect two nine-week instructional approaches - "mastery motivational climate'' and "low autonomy''  - had motor skill development of preschoolers.

Their research found that preschoolers exposed to "mastery motivational climate,'' a student-centered instructional approach for motor skill development, gained more confidence in their physical abilities than did preschoolers who received other forms of instruction. Their research suggests that young children are naturally motivated to master physical tasks and movements if exposed to "mastery-oriented'' climates. Through this approach, participants decide how they will participate in physical activities and to practice them at their own pace.

Their findings demonstrate that preschoolers at risk for developmental delays and poor health exposed to a mastery climate demonstrated higher perceived physical competence compared to other participants and that they maintained their gains over time. This may increase the likelihood of continued participation in physical activity and play.

Their study is especially timely given that, according to recent data released by the state, 18 percent of Alabama's young children are classified as obese. The percentage has risen each year and has grown to include an especially high number of African-American children in Alabama's rural communities. Other research has shown that children adopt sedentary lifestyles early in life, which can lead to higher levels of health risk as adults.

Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport    is the journal of the Research Consortium of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance    (AAHPERD).