Journal+Page

= Lucas Kane Smith = = September 1, 2011 = = Instruct. Tech. For Sec. Teachers =

==== If one was to ask a student, what they like to do in their past time, they would most likely get an answer that included some form of technology. The generations of the past spent a lot of time outdoors and doing activities that actually included physical activity. That’s not the case these days. Whether its sitting in front of a computer, TV, or constantly staying on a cell phone today’s youth choose technology of physical activity more times than not. Some imaginative teachers have recognized this and started altering their strategies to accommodate the students’ interests yet still keeping them physically active. Some have started encouraging students to exercise using video games such as Nintendo’s Wii Fit and Dance Dance Revolution. These games consist of the players mimicking dance moves or other activities on the screen, requiring constant movement. ==== ==== P.E. classes have become bland and boring. No teacher can expect students to be enthusiastic, day in and day out, about doing jumping jacks, pushups, or running laps. Like any other educational class, changes must be made to fit the generation their teaching. "Anything that can add legitimacy to physical education is worth the effort." Since 1980, childhood obesity has more than tripled in the US. Sixteen percent of children people ages 6 to 19 are overweight or obese. By incorporating these games into class, the population of students who don’t play sports are capable of getting the exercise they need. Instead of abstaining from participation in class, the games make the students excited to take part in the activities. ==== ==== There is no better way to get a child to participate than making the activity fun. Children not only stay more eager to partake in but they also are more likely to continue the activity if they are enjoy it. After a student competes in these games at school they are probably likely to continue to play after school. This leads to the students being further active and becoming healthier. I believe it’s possible that this style of PE classes can lead to a decrease in childhood obesity. ====