The Effect of Choice in Physical Education on Time on Task for Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

Shawna Young (Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Stanislaus, USA)

Abstract: Research indicates that exercise has a positive effect on the behavior of individuals with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBDs). In order to realize this benefit, the students must be engaged in the physical activity, maintaining high time on task (TOT). Management of students with EBDs, especially large groups of these students, maintaining high TOT and engagement, can be challenging in the physical education (PE) environment. Given the research indicating the positive influence choice in PE has on student engagement, a study examining the effect of choice in PE on TOT among students with emotional and behavioral disorders was conducted. The research question examined was the following: Is there a difference in mean TOT scores for students with EBDs in a PE class in a choice setting compared to a no-choice setting? Results of the independent samples t-test indicated a statistically significant difference in mean TOT scores among students with EBDs in a choice PE setting compared to a no-choice PE setting. Examples of ways choice can be incorporated in PE are provided.

Key words: choice; time on task; emotional and behavioral disorders