Identifying cross curricular linkages of a class-based walking challenge : an exploratory study

Adult workplace intervention programs to improve physical activity through wearing personal pedometers and completing team orientated 'virtual journeys' have been shown to be useful in enhancing activity levels (Mummery, Schofield, Hinchliffe, Joyner, & Brown, 2006). Similar approaches applied to the school setting have also been trialled (Oliver, Schofield, & McEvoy, 2006), yet the full potential of web-supported class-based walking challenges to provide data and/or learning experiences to achieve learning outcomes within the academic curriculum remains largely undeveloped.The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of using a web-supported class-based walking challenge by identifying cross-curricular linkages to the mandated Queensland curriculum at the Year 5 level. These linkages are described in detail and barriers and constraints to delivery are described. Recommendations for teachers and schools contemplating a similar activity are provided.