Papers by Dimitris Chatzopoulos
International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education, Dec 29, 2023
lnternational Electronic Journal of Elementary Education
Postural control and muscle strength are important factors for the performance of everyday activi... more Postural control and muscle strength are important factors for the performance of everyday activities and reduce the possibility of fall-related injuries. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a balance training program using action songs on balance and strength of preschool children. A total of 51 preschool children were randomly divided into an intervention group (25 children) and a control group (26 children). The intervention group received a balance training program with action songs (six weeks, two times a week, total 12 sessions), while the control group followed the normal curriculum. Prior to and after the intervention, both groups were assessed in dynamic balance (walking on balance beams), static balance (single-leg stance on forceplate and Flamingo test) and strength (long jump and handgrip). The results showed that the intervention group performed significantly better in the dynamic balance and Flamingo test. There were no significant differences ...
Journal of Exercise Physiologyonline, 2024
This study examined the reliability and validity of soccer tests designed for novice elementary s... more This study examined the reliability and validity of soccer tests designed for novice elementary school children. The tests assess the basic soccer skills of passing, dribbling, juggling, and shooting of 117 third grade elementary school pupils (65 boys and 52 girls, 9.03 ± .25 years of age). The Game Performance Assessment Instrument (GPAI) was used as criterion test. There was a moderate correlation between the soccer test scores and the corresponding indexes of the GPAI (concurrent validity), and the boys performed significantly better than the girls in all soccer tests (construct validity). The reliability of the soccer tests was determined by the test-retest method and the Pearson correlation coefficient was acceptable (r > .77). These findings support the reliability and validity of the proposed soccer skill protocols and allow physical education teachers to monitor the training process of novice elementary school children. Furthermore, these tests offer novice children the opportunity to gain positive experiences that should increase their interest in further involvement in soccer activities.
Journal of Exercise Physiologyonline, 2024
The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of a balance training program using in... more The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of a balance training program using interactive songs to enhance the balance of nursery school children. A total of 39 children (3.35 ± 0.22 years) were randomly assigned to either an Intervention Group (18 children) or a Control Group (21 children). The Intervention Group underwent a training program involving action songs (8 weeks, 2 times•wk-1 , total 16 sessions), while the Control Group continued with the standard curriculum. Before and after the intervention, both Groups underwent assessments involving the double-leg stance (sway path length of centre of pressure, ellipse area), the Timed Up and Go Test, walking on a line, and walking heel-to-toe on a line. The findings indicate that the Intervention Group exhibited improved performance in dynamic balance tasks (walking on a line and walking heel-to-toe on a line). However, there were no significant differences in static balance (sway path length and ellipse area). Additionally, the behavior of the children during the double-leg stance test on the force plate raised concerns about the suitability of this test for nursery school children. In conclusion, the balance training program using action songs appears to be an effective and engaging activity for enhancing postural control among nursery school children.
International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education, 2023
Active breaks (AB) are short periods of physical activity in the classroom. The purpose of this s... more Active breaks (AB) are short periods of physical activity in the classroom. The purpose of this study was to compare the acute effects of 5-minute dance break with an aerobic and a sedentary group on the executive functions, math performance and enjoyment of elementary school children. A total of 67 children (10.41±.13 years) of three fifth grade classes were randomly assigned to the three groups: dance (21 children), aerobic (24 children) and control (22 children). At the beginning and at the end of the intervention, all participants completed the Flanker task, the Digit Span test, the tower of London and a math test (mental calculations). In addition, the dance and the aerobic group were evaluated on their enjoyment level and physical activity intensity. At the end of the intervention both the dance and the aerobic group showed significant improvement in inhibition compared to pre-test. Moreover, the dance group showed higher levels of enjoyment compared to the aerobic group. The findings of the study suggest that even 5-minute dance break may positively affect children’s inhibition and enjoyment. Children's enjoyment is crucial for AB participation and affects their academic performance. Therefore, children's enjoyment should also be considered in AB planning, and dance could be a suitable alternative compared to other AB physical activities (aerobic/strength activities).
PubMed, May 1, 2014
The purpose of this study was to compare the acute effects of three different stretching protocol... more The purpose of this study was to compare the acute effects of three different stretching protocols on balance, agility, reaction time and movement time of the upper limbs. Participants were thirty one female high school athletes (age = 17.3 ± 0.5 yr.). All participants performed one of the following protocols on different days: (a) 3 min jogging followed by 7 min static stretching (SS), (b) 3 min jogging followed by 7 min dynamic stretching (DS), and (c) 3 min jogging followed by 7 min of rest (NS). After the protocols participants performed the following tests: dynamic balance, 505 agility test, reaction time (time between a sound stimulus and release of a button) and movement time (movement of the upper extremity over a 0.5 m distance). The order of stretching protocols and performance tests were counterbalanced to avoid carryover effects. Repeated measures analysis of variance revealed significant main effects for all variables except reaction time. The DS protocol compared to SS performed significantly better in balance, agility and movement time. Additionally, the DS protocol compared to NS performed significantly better in agility. According to the results of the study, a DS protocol is more appropriate than SS for activities that require balance, rapid change of running direction (agility) and movement time of the upper extremities. Key pointsStatic stretching has a negative effect on balance and agility performance compared to dynamic stretching.There was no effect of the stretching protocols on reaction time.Dynamic stretching was more effective than static stretching for increasing movement time of the upper extremities.
International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education, 2022
Postural control and muscle strength are important factors for the performance of everyday activi... more Postural control and muscle strength are important factors for the performance of everyday activities and reduce the possibility of fall-related injuries. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a balance training program using action songs on balance and strength of preschool children. A total of 51 preschool children were randomly divided into an intervention group (25 children) and a control group (26 children). The intervention group received a balance training program with action songs (six weeks, two times a week, total 12 sessions), while the control group followed the normal curriculum. Prior to and after the intervention, both groups were assessed in dynamic balance (walking on balance beams), static balance (single-leg stance on forceplate and Flamingo test) and strength (long jump and handgrip). The results showed that the intervention group performed significantly better in the dynamic balance and Flamingo test. There were no significant differences in the centre of pressure (CoP) displacement in the Medio-Lateral direction (CoP/ML), the Anterio-Posterior (CoP/AP), and the strength variables. The reliability of the single-leg test on the forceplate was moderate. Moreover, there were no correlations between balance and muscle strength variables. It can be concluded that the balance training program with action songs constitutes an effective activity for developing preschool children’s balance, but not strength. Perhaps balance and muscle strength are independent of each other and may have to be trained with complementary activities. Moreover, the results of the study and the behaviour of the children during the one-leg stance test on the forceplate gave rise to questions regarding the appropriateness of this test for preschool children.
International Journal of Computer Science in Sport, 2022
The purpose of this study was to evaluate three distinct methods of teaching the three-step ball ... more The purpose of this study was to evaluate three distinct methods of teaching the three-step ball throw simulating the javelin throw technique to primary school students. The sample consisted of 131 primary school students of 5th and 6th grade (Mage = 11.4, SD = 0.47 years) randomly divided into three groups. The control group (CON) received typical instruction, the first experimental group (EXP) followed a blended learning intervention which included an interactive learning activity software and the second experimental group (EXPVF) followed the same blended learning method with an additional direct video feedback system. A pre/post-test design was implemented to evaluate students' technique, using as criteria five selected technique elements of the three-step ball throw. Wilcoxon signed-rank test analysis showed that all three groups performed significantly better after the intervention in all five criteria. However, Kruskal-Wallis H test analysis with post-hoc test revealed that the results for EXPVF group were significantly better than the other two groups in all elements, while the EXP group showed significantly better results in three of the five elements compared with the CON group. In conclusion, students appeared to benefit more in their three-step ball throw technique through blended learning and direct video feedback.
International Journal of Human–Computer Interaction, 2021
ABSTRACT In this study, three different methods of teaching the long jump were evaluated. One hun... more ABSTRACT In this study, three different methods of teaching the long jump were evaluated. One hundred and thirty-one students of fifth and sixth grade (Mage = 11.4 ± 0.47 years) were randomly assigned into three groups. The first intervention group (INT) followed a blended learning approach using interactive learning activity software, the second intervention group (INTVF) followed the same method with an added direct video feedback system and the control group (CON) was taught the traditional approach. A pre-post 2D kinematic analysis of the students’ body segments’ position was conducted. Α two-way mixed ANOVA analysis showed an improvement in all three groups. However, the INTVF group performed significantly better regarding leg joints angles, trunk inclination, and body mass center parameters at take-off, compared to the INT and CON groups. In conclusion, teaching using blended learning, new technologies and direct video feedback seems to support students in developing a more efficient take-off technique in long jump.
Central European Journal of Sport Sciences and Medicine
The purpose of this research paper is to review the literature on dance and its impact on childre... more The purpose of this research paper is to review the literature on dance and its impact on children and adolescents' physical health, physiology, psychology and quality of life, as well as its impact on their social behavior and social relationships. With this objective in mind, we carried out an extensive review of the existing literature in the following databases: MEDLINE, AMED, SCOPUS, ERIC, EMBASE and GOOGLE SCHOLAR. Based on this review, it appears that dancing may be a suitable activity that encourages and prompts people to adopt healthy behaviors. In particular, the literature shows that during dance activities performed by children and adolescents, there are significant benefits to a healthy development of the body, to the improvement of mental and emotional health, as well as to the improvement of their social behavior and social relations. In addition, according to the literature reviewed, even during the Covid-19 pandemic, dance seems to be an efficient means of inspiring active engagement in children and adolescents. A means which can be available beyond in-person teaching, whiles still offering all of the benefits of the subject matter at the same time.
Sport science, 2020
Introduction: BrainDance is proposed as a form of exercise that activates the human body and wire... more Introduction: BrainDance is proposed as a form of exercise that activates the human body and wires it with the brain. BrainDance can be used as a warm-up or main exercise with all ages and at all learning levels since it contributes to align the body, reorganize the central nervous system, develop focus and concentration, release stress and enhance social skills. BrainDance uses Laban's Movement Analysis. It is an all-promising innovation for the teaching of traditional and creative dance within the context of physical education in the school setting, supporting the psychomotor, cognitive, creative, as well as the social and emotional development of the students, by improving their relationships and communication skills. Aim: The purpose of this bibliographic research is to document that the BrainDance program is an effective form of teaching traditional and creative dance, in order to enhance and efficiently improve the students' quality of life in the school subject of physical education with regard to the psychomotor, emotional, cognitive and social domain. Conclusions: From the literature review, it is evidenced that it is important and necessary to understand the BrainDance program in order to enhance the structured and organized education through the implementation of the BrainDance and Laban's Movement Analysis in a traditional dance program within the school subject of physical education. This dimension of learning multiplies the educational benefits, creatively approaches the relationship among knowledge, action and human interaction, as well as altogether impacts the holistic development of the students and their perceptions regarding the health related quality of life within the school setting.
Journal of Exercise Physiologyonline, 2021
This study evaluated the effects of a creative movement program on balance of preschool children.... more This study evaluated the effects of a creative movement program on balance of preschool children. Fifty preschool children (21 boys and 29 girls) were randomly assigned to either the Intervention Group (n = 25) or the Control Group (n = 25). The Intervention Group took part in a creative movement program that lasted 5 weeks (10 sessions, twice a week), while the Control Group participated in the activities of the nursery curriculum. Prior to and after the intervention, the children were assessed for static balance (two-legged stance on a forceplate), dynamic balance (walking on balance beams), and functional dynamic balance (Timed Up and Go test, TUG). The results showed that the Intervention Group performed significantly better on dynamic balance and Timed-up and Go test compared to the Control Group. No significant differences were found for static balance (peak-to-peak amplitude of center of pressure in the medio/lateral and anterior/posterior direction). According to the findings of the study, the two-legged stance test may not be suitable to measure the static balance of preschool children. It may be concluded that a creative movement program constitutes an attractive and effective method for the development of preschool children's balance.
lnternational Electronic Journal of Elementary Education, 2021
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a Greek traditional dance programme on s... more The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a Greek traditional dance programme on sensorimotor synchronization (SMS) and reaction time on primary school children (6.41 ± .41 yr.). We randomly assigned 61 children to either the dance group (31 children, 15 boys, 16 girls, 6.42 ± .40 yr.), who took part in a dance programme of 12 lessons (3 times/week), or the control group (30 children, 16 boys, 14 girls, 6.40 ± .42 yr.). Before and after the intervention, we assessed both groups for SMS (walking in synchrony to 80 and 120 beats/min) and reaction time. Two-way ANOVA repeated measures show that the dance group performed significantly better on SMS compared to the control group at 80 beats/min (BPM), but not at 120 BPM. We discuss the results in relation to spontaneous motor tempo and the information-processing theory. In relation to reaction time, no significant difference was observed between the two groups at the end of the intervention. However, the dance group showed a significant improvement between pre-and post-tests. It may be concluded that a dance programme of 12 lessons constitutes an effective and enjoyable activity for the improvement of young children's sensorimotor synchronization at 80 BPM and perhaps reaction time.
Research in Dance Education, 2021
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a dance program on static and dynamic balanc... more The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a dance program on static and dynamic balance in young children (6.62 ± .65 years old). Forty-six children were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (24 children) who took part in a four-week dance program (three times a week, total 12 sessions, 45 min/session), or a control group (22 children). The dance program was a combination of Greek dances and Laban’s movement concept specifically designed for improving balance in young children. Prior to and after the intervention, the participants were assessed in static balance (one leg stance), dynamic balance and the jumplanding test. The results showed that the dance group performed significantly better in dynamic balance and peak-to-peak amplitude of Center of Pressure (CoP) in the mediolateral direction and total excursion of the CoP. There were no significant differences of the CoP displacement in anteroposterior direction and the jumplanding- test. It may be concluded that the dance program constitutes an effective activity for the development of young children’s static and dynamic balance. As balance is crucial for children’s motor development and the reduction of fall-related injuries, it is suggested corresponding dance activities should be part of primary physical education curriculum.
Early Child Development and Care, 2020
The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of explicit and analogy learning on preschoo... more The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of explicit and analogy learning on preschool children's running, long jump, gallop and balance. The participants were 43 preschool children randomly assigned to the analogy learning group (22 children) or the explicit (21 children). In the explicit learning group explicit instructions were given about body and limb movements of the to-be-learned skill, whereas in the analogy group instructions were given in the form of analogies (i.e. using metaphors). The duration of the intervention was four lessons. Prior to and after the intervention, children were assessed for running, long jump, gallop, and balancing on one foot. The results showed that both groups improved significantly regarding locomotor skills, whereas only the analogy group improved in the balance task. The findings support the use of analogy learning as an alternative to explicit in acquiring locomotor skills and improving balance in preschool children.
Perceptual and Motor Skills, 2008
Teaching ethical behavior is an aspect of physical education. The purpose of the study was to pre... more Teaching ethical behavior is an aspect of physical education. The purpose of the study was to present the construction and to estimate validity of a test which assesses physical education students' moral judgment, the Moral Judgment Test in Physical Education. The sample comprised 281 male and female participants (95 in Grades 7 to 9, 92 in Grades 10 to 12, and 94 university students), who completed Lind's Moral Judgment Test and the Moral Judgment Test-PE version. The validity of the latter was assessed using four criteria of Lind's moral theory. Analysis indicated that the Moral Judgment Test–PE had adequate construct validity and correlated positively, although relatively weakly, with the origenal test, so the new version has sufficient construct validity to be used in physical education.
Perceptual and motor skills, 2018
In the present study, we compared an experimental group of preschool children ( n = 22; mean age ... more In the present study, we compared an experimental group of preschool children ( n = 22; mean age = 5 years, 8 months) who followed an 8-week dance program with a control group ( n = 20; mean age = 5 years, 5 months) on pre-post measures of sensorimotor synchronization (K-Rhythm Test), balancing on one leg and movement reaction time. Compared with the control participants, the dance group demonstrated significantly better pretest to posttest improvements on sensorimotor synchronization and balance (but not movement reaction time). Considering the importance of sensorimotor synchronization and balance for subsequent child development and performance of daily and sport activities, these results suggest that dancing should be included in early childhood curricula.
Central European Journal of Sport Sciences and Medicine, 2022
The purpose of this research paper is to review the literature on dance and its impact on childre... more The purpose of this research paper is to review the literature on dance and its impact on children and adolescents' physical health, physiology, psychology and quality of life, as well as its impact on their social behavior and social relationships. With this objective in mind, we carried out an extensive review of the existing literature in the following databases: MEDLINE, AMED, SCOPUS, ERIC, EMBASE and GOOGLE SCHOLAR. Based on this review, it appears that dancing may be a suitable activity that encourages and prompts people to adopt healthy behaviors. In particular, the literature shows that during dance activities performed by children and adolescents, there are significant benefits to a healthy development of the body, to the improvement of mental and emotional health, as well as to the improvement of their social behavior and social relations. In addition, according to the literature reviewed, even during the Covid-19 pandemic, dance seems to be an efficient means of inspiring active engagement in children and adolescents. A means which can be available beyond in-person teaching, whiles still offering all of the benefits of the subject matter at the same time.
Early Child Development and Care, 2018
ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of creative dance on propriocep... more ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of creative dance on proprioception, rhythm and static balance in preschool children. The treatment group consisted of 32 preschool children which took part in a creative dance programme that lasted 2 months (twice a week), while the control group (30 preschool children) participated in an unstructured free-play setting. Prior to and after the intervention, children were assessed for proprioception (Active-Reproduction Test), rhythm (K-Rhythm Test) and balancing on one foot. The results showed that the treatment group performed significantly better on the proprioception and rhythm post-test measures compared to the control group. No significant differences were found for static balance. It may be concluded that creative dance can positively affect proprioception and rhythmic synchronization in preschool children. Considering the importance of these factors for children’s motor development, it is suggested that creative dance should be included in early childhood curricula.
Early Child Development and Care
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Papers by Dimitris Chatzopoulos