NCOIS Post-doctoral researcher Cassandra ‘Cat’ Lane has recently published two papers exploring implementation in physical activity programs for children in schools:
– Identifying essential implementation strategies: a mixed methods process evaluation of a multi-strategy policy implementation intervention for schools
– Economic evaluation of a multi-strategy intervention that improves school-based physical activity policy implementation.
ABOUT THE PAPERS:
Identifying essential implementation strategies: a mixed methods process evaluation of a multi-strategy policy implementation intervention for schools
This paper explores implementation of an adapted version of the Physically Active Children in Education (PACE) program to inform future scale up.
In prior studies, the multi-component PACE intervention was proven to be effective in assisting schools to implement mandatory physical activity policies. This new study looked at delivery dose, fidelity, adoption and acceptability of both PACE and an adapted version of PACE with less in-person external support. The study also explored implementation barriers and facilitators using qualitative methods.
Our researchers found that school executive support and in-school champions’ interest were the most influential factors supporting implementation, regardless of the level of in-person external support offered.
Reference: Lane C, Naylor PJ, Shoesmith A, Wolfenden L, Hall A, Sutherland R, Nathan N. Identifying essential implementation strategies: a mixed methods process evaluation of a multi-strategy policy implementation intervention for schools. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity. 2022 Dec;19(1):1-22. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-022-01281-5
Publication: Access here.
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Economic evaluation of a multi-strategy intervention that improves school-based physical activity policy implementation.
This paper examines if the Physically Active Children in Education (PACE) program is a cost-effective way to improve implementation of a mandatory school physical activity policy.
This paper is an economic evaluation of the Physically Active Children in Education (PACE) intervention in the journal Implementation Science. This study is one of few that have examined the costs and cost-effectiveness of public health implementation interventions in schools.
Our researchers looked at the investment required to support schools to implement a mandatory physical activity policy. We found that PACE is a cost-effective approach for the health service provider to support schools to implement a physical activity policy mandate. The study also identified where the program could be adapted to reduce costs for future scale-up.
Reference: Lane C, Nathan N, Reeves P, Sutherland R, Wolfenden L, Shoesmith A, Hall A. Economic evaluation of a multi-strategy intervention that improves school-based physical activity policy implementation. Implementation Science. 2022 Dec;17(1):1-6. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-022-01215-6
Read the full paper here.
Lead Researcher: on these studies, Dr Cassandra Lane can be contacted here.