Experiences of Undergraduate Students Enrolled in a University Instructional Physical Activity Course: Exploring Factors Contributing to Behavior Modification

Background: There is a trend of decreased daily physical activity among college students. Demands of coursework, hectic schedules, and stress often prevent students from engaging in regular exercise, leading to negative impacts on mental and physical well-being. University Instructional Physical Activity Programs have the potential to address this issue by offering courses that can encourage healthier habits and promote wellness. Aim: The purpose of this study was to analyze the experiences of undergraduate students enrolled in a two-credit elective physical activity course. Methods: Participants were 587 undergraduate students enrolled in an online instructional physical activity course. Data collection included a survey consisting of three questions on a five-point Likert scale and one open-ended response regarding their experience in the course. Results: Descriptive survey data indicated positive trends regarding participants’ experience. Based on thematic analysis, qualitative data produced four themes including (1) awareness, (2) accountability, (3) ease and convenience, and (4) behavior change. Conclusions: Participants had an overall positive response to wearing an activity tracker in an online physical activity course and believed the awareness the activity tracker provided changed their daily behaviors, enabled health outcomes, and changed future intentions for physical activity. This study provides insight into the inclusion of technology to facilitate physical activity in college-age students. Aim: The purpose of this study was to analyze the experiences of undergraduate students enrolled in a two-credit elective physical activity course. Methods: Participants were 587 undergraduate students enrolled in an online instructional physical activity course. Data collection included a survey consisting of three questions on a five-point Likert scale and one open-ended response regarding their experience in the course. Results: Descriptive survey data indicated positive trends regarding participants’ experience. Based on thematic analysis, qualitative data produced four themes including (1) awareness, (2) accountability, (3) ease and convenience, and (4) behavior change. Conclusions: Participants had an overall positive response to wearing an activity tracker in an online physical activity course and believed the awareness the activity tracker provided changed their daily behaviors, enabled health outcomes, and changed future intentions for physical activity. This study provides insight into the inclusion of technology to facilitate physical activity in college-age students.