Evaluation of a Health and Fitness Social Media Experience
- 1 July 2011
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Taylor & Francis Ltd in American Journal of Health Education
- Vol. 42 (4), 222-227
- https://doi.org/10.1080/19325037.2011.10599191
Abstract
Background: University health and fitness faculty members are continually striving to enhance the health knowledge of their students. Purpose: The purpose of this case study was to survey student reflections of a social media experience. Methods: Students were placed into one of two groups: Learners (N = 92) or Pre-Service Health and Fitness Professionals (N = 35). The interaction with social media began when Learners posted health and fitness questions to a Facebook group site. Survey questionnaires were given to all participants. Results: The responses of the Learner group revealed that 51.1% believed long-term use of a social media site benefit their fitness routine. A supporting Learner response, “I feel more informed and aware of proper fitness.” The responses of the Pre-Service Health and Fitness Professionals group revealed that 52.9% learned from peers. A supporting PSHFP response, “I learned that some of my peers are quick to establish more ways to improve a workout…” Discussion: Both Learners and Pre-Service Health and Fitness Professionals groups gave new insights into health and fitness needs. Translation to Health Education Practice: The University is an ideal setting to share health and fitness knowledge through social media.Keywords
This publication has 9 references indexed in Scilit:
- Educational use of social networking technology in higher educationTeaching in Higher Education, 2010
- Professional Development 2.0Journal of Digital Learning in Teacher Education, 2010
- Wellness 101: health education for the university studentHealth Education, 2010
- Changes in Women’s Physical Activity During the Transition to CollegeAmerican Journal of Health Education, 2008
- A Tailored Approach to Identifying and Addressing College Students’ Online Health Information LiteracyAmerican Journal of Health Education, 2008
- Internet Use for Health Information Among College StudentsJournal of American College Health, 2005
- Health LiteracyPublished by The National Academies Press ,2004
- Transition to University and Vigorous Physical Activity: Implications for Health and Psychological Well-BeingJournal of American College Health, 2004
- The Impact of a Required College Health and Physical Education Course on the Health Status of AlumniJournal of American College Health, 1997