Enhancing motor competence, health-related fitness, and psychosocial wellbeing among children with motor difficulties – A cluster-randomized controlled trial (MoDiSchool)

Acronym

MoDiSchool

Description of the granted funding

This study focuses on helping school-aged children with motor difficulties by improving early recognition and support. In the first phase, we will explore how these challenges can be identified using input from children (n=1200), parents (n=1200), and teachers (n=510). We will combine standardized tests, and children's, parents' and teachers' reports to assess motor difficulties and compare the results of different methods. We will also examine teachers' competencies to support motor skill development. In the second phase, we will test a 20-week physical activity intervention program. The study will involve three groups: classroom activities only, classroom and extracurricular activities, and a control group. Outcomes include physical and psycho-social variables, with follow-ups at 5 and 12 months. Teachers will co-design the program to ensure it fits well in schools. Study results can be widely used in schools and teacher education.
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Starting year

2025

End year

2028

Granted funding


Mikko Huhtiniemi Orcid -palvelun logo
374 980 €

Funder

Research Council of Finland

Funding instrument

Academy programme

Decision maker

Suomen akatemian muu päättäjä
16.05.2025

Other information

Funding decision number

370268

Fields of science

Sport and fitness sciences

Research fields

Liikuntatiede

Identified topics

psychology