High-Impact Educational Practices in Kinesiology: Examples of Curricular Advancements to Prepare Students for the Future of Work

Abstract

A 21st century college education should prepare students to meet workforce demands and contribute to an educated citizenry. This paper provides examples of the ways in which two institutions are adjusting kinesiology program design and delivery through the adoption of high-impact educational practices to prepare students to meet these goals. The authors describe first-year experiences to develop critical information literacy, a series of collaborative community-based health projects, and a unique internship experience for work-integrated learning. The authors reflect on the similarities between their efforts to implement high-impact teaching practices to prepare kinesiology students for the future of work. Keys to success include: (a) shifting to idea-based, learner-centered curriculum design; (b) developing strategic partnerships with college services, programs, and administrators; and (c) recognizing the significant impact of the changes on the student learning experience.

Leading Through Times of Uncertainty: The Future of Higher Education, Work, and Kinesiology

“…She argues that educators will need to think more broadly and holistically about their roles to successfully model to students the qualities necessary to thrive in ever-changing workplaces. Wheeler and Van Mullem (2021) follow this overview by presenting high-impact practices within two kinesiology units that are designed to prepare students for this future. These practices are undergirded by emphasizing idea-based and learner-centered approaches, leveraging strategic partnerships, and recognizing how the practices shape the student learning experience.…”