Kinesiology Course Notes

Introduction to Kinesiology

  • Presented by Dr. Kate Kloos based on the work of Dr. Jo Anna Shepard.

Plan and Class Collaborative Roles

  • Understand class motivations and the concept of Kinesiology (KIN).
  • Potential Group Roles:
    • Organizer/Manager: Keep deadlines and tech setup.
    • Note-Taker: Document lectures in a shared Google Doc.
    • Writer: Draft sections of projects based on class content.
    • Creative Visionary: Create visual aids to support comprehension.
    • Explorer: Enhance notes with external resources.
    • Editor: Refine project materials for clarity and standards compliance (e.g., APA).
    • Examiner: Create mock exams for practice.
    • Speaker: Present info to class and liaise with instructor for queries.

What is Kinesiology?

  • Definition: Study of the art and science of human movement.
  • Focuses on muscular activity, anatomy, physiology, and body mechanics.
  • Origin of the terms: "Kin = movement" and "Ology = study of".

Clarification of the Kinesiology Profession

  • Challenges in defining the profession; often mistaken for “gym teachers.”
  • Recognized developments in the field over the past decade.

History of Kinesiology

  • Originated in the 1900s, relating to biomechanics but evolved significantly.
  • 1990s: Kinesiology gained broader acceptance across various subdisciplines (physical education, nutrition, coaching, etc.).
  • The term is not universally understood outside the field.

Alternative Terms for Kinesiology

  • Human kinetics, human performance, human movement, sport science, health sciences, exercise science, physical activity studies, movement studies.

Definitions Within Kinesiology

  • Physical Education: Academic subject aiming to build physically literate individuals.
  • Sport: Competitive activity with formal rules aimed at winning.
  • Athletics: High-level sport competition, often track and field-related.
  • Play: Essential for human development, provides relaxation and emotional release.
  • Leisure: Individual's perception of free time activities.
  • Exercise: Activity to strengthen and condition the body.
  • Physical Fitness: Refers to overall biological functioning (strength, endurance, etc.).
  • Health: Reflects a balance of physical, mental, social, and spiritual wellness.
  • Wellness: Active lifestyle management focusing on risk factors.

Professional vs. Discipline

  • Kinesiology as a discipline is scholarly and organized around unique themes.

Interdisciplinary Nature of Kinesiology

  • Multidisciplinary: Draws on multiple disciplines with distinct contributions.
  • Interdisciplinary: Integrates approaches to answer complex questions.
  • Example situations showing interdisciplinary work:
    • PE curriculum adaptations for different grade levels.
    • Kinesiologist designing motivational programs.
    • Physiotherapist analyzing patient rehabilitation.

Philosophy's Role in Kinesiology

  • Definition of philosophy: The love of wisdom or the pursuit of truth; it helps explore relationships to the universe.
  • Importance of philosophical knowledge in kinesiology-related professions:
    • Evaluating ethical, aesthetic, and existential questions in physical activity contexts.

Philosophical Inquiry and Kinesiology

  • Epistemology: Examines how we acquire knowledge.
  • Ontology: Involves understanding the nature of reality (positivist vs. constructivist views).
  • Axiology: Analyzes values, guiding behavior in kinesiology.

Issues and Questions in Philosophy of Kinesiology

  • Nature of physical activity and underlying values.

Reflection Questions for Students

  • Identifying new vs. affirmed information from the course.
  • Areas of knowledge to challenge or deepen understanding.
  • Anticipating potential exam topics.