Fourth‐grade Elementary Students’ Conceptions of Standards‐based Lunar Concepts

Fourth‐grade students’ knowledge of observable moon phases and patterns of change, as well as conceptual understanding of the cause of moon phases, was investigated before and after special instruction. Pretest and post‐test data for 48 students were used to address the research question related to observable moon phases and patterns of change. Interviews were conducted with 10 students on a post‐only basis to provide data on understanding the cause of moon phases. The researchers used the constant comparative method to analyse data. Pretest results indicate these students had not met the expectations expressed in the U.S. Science Education Standards for lunar concepts. Post‐test results reveal a very positive performance on observable moon phases and patterns of change, as well as the cause of moon phases. Interpretation and implications of these findings are provided.     

Coach Education and Continuing Professional Development: Experience and Learning to Coach

Research over the last decade has demonstrated that it is experience and the observation of other coaches that remain the primary sources of knowledge for coaches. Despite this, coach education and continuing professional development fail to draw effectively on this experience. Using the work of Pierre Bourdieu, this paper attempts to understand how the “art of coaching” can be characterized as structured improvisation and how experience is crucial to structuring coaching practice. An examination of current coach education and assessment demonstrates that coaching practice viewed as a composite of knowledge has not specifically addressed the pervasive influence of experience on coaching practice. Drawing on experiences from the educational field, we examine how coach education and continuing professional development can utilize mentoring and critical reflection to situate learning in the practical experience of coaching.     

Validation of the Rockport Fitness Walking Test in Females 65 Years and Older

Abstract

Speed and energy expenditure of the closed and open freestyle swimming turns were determined on six male swimmers. The subjects were tested while in a post-absorptive state. Resting metabolic rates were determined utilizing an open-circuit, Douglas bag method. The test included swimming a distance of 70 ft. and performing either the closed or open turn without taking a breath. Upon completion of the test, the subject breathed into a Douglas bag for 15 min. Each turn was timed with a stopwatch; a turn started 3 ft. 10 in. before touching and ended as the feet left the side of the pool. Statistical treatment of the date revealed no significant difference in energy expenditure. However, the closed turn proved to be significantly faster than the open.