How to Make Physical Activity Promotion Work in Thai Schools: Perspectives of Multiple Stakeholders
3
Issued Date
2022-01-01
Resource Type
ISSN
15433080
eISSN
15435474
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85124577502
Pubmed ID
34902839
Journal Title
Journal of Physical Activity and Health
Volume
19
Issue
1
Start Page
63
End Page
70
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Journal of Physical Activity and Health Vol.19 No.1 (2022) , 63-70
Suggested Citation
Amornsriwatanakul A. How to Make Physical Activity Promotion Work in Thai Schools: Perspectives of Multiple Stakeholders. Journal of Physical Activity and Health Vol.19 No.1 (2022) , 63-70. 70. doi:10.1123/jpah.2021-0504 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/86671
Title
How to Make Physical Activity Promotion Work in Thai Schools: Perspectives of Multiple Stakeholders
Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to determine current practice in physical activity (PA) promotion in Thai schools, explore barriers and facilitators to PA promotion within the school setting, and identify strategies to support schools' future practice. Methods: A qualitative study design was applied comprising document analysis, focus groups, in-depth interviews, and onsite observations. The focus groups and in-depth interviews were conducted with 144 informants, purposively recruited through 24 schools in 4 regions across Thailand. Inductive content analysis was used. Results: Most schools were promoting PA in the absence of written policies, and without an accurate understanding of PA. Nonalignment of school performance indicators and policies, concerns about children's academic performance, and lack of budget were raised as barriers to PA promotion, whereas strong partnerships with multiple local stakeholders facilitated school-based PA promotion. Mandated government PA policies and more information support were suggested as strategies to enhance schools' future practices. Conclusions: For PA promotion to be successful in the school setting, significant challenges will need to be addressed. Results from this study help the government and concerned stakeholders to better understand the situation at the school level, and further strive for achieving the target PA levels specified in the National PA Plan.