“I’ve never been in a program after school”: a participatory action research approach to sports-based ‘critical hours’ programs
Date
Author
Institution
Degree Level
Degree
Department
Supervisor / Co-Supervisor and Their Department(s)
Examining Committee Member(s) and Their Department(s)
Citation for Previous Publication
Link to Related Item
Abstract
Accessible extracurricular programs have the potential to increase levels of physical activity after school (Weschsler et al., 2000). Using Participatory Action Research (PAR) the purpose of this study was to develop, implement, and evaluate a ‘critical hours’ sports-based program for students living in low-income areas of Edmonton, Alberta. The research took place in two schools and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 program participants and 19 stakeholders. The five themes that emerged were: 1) “I Play Those Games Nowhere Else,” 2) “Just General Life Skills,” 3) “How We Fit in the Whole Picture,” 4) “It’s Not Always Financial,” and 5) “Plan for it Long Term.” Findings from this research provide support for the need for ‘critical hours’ programs. Furthermore, this research is a practical example of how meaningful partnerships can lead to action at the individual, school, and community level.