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An examination of neuro-cognitive functioning and its relationship with physical activity intensity levels and cardiovascular fitness, and the importance of a holistic approach to the development and education of a child

Wilson, Ciara (2018) An examination of neuro-cognitive functioning and its relationship with physical activity intensity levels and cardiovascular fitness, and the importance of a holistic approach to the development and education of a child. Master of Science thesis, Dublin City University.

Abstract
Introduction: It is reported that regular physical activity (PA) is linked to increased neuro-cognitive function (NCF) in children, with moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) showing the most benefits (Syvaoja et al. 2015). What remains unclear is i) which elements of cognition, are affected by exercise intensities in healthy youth and ii) what model could demonstrate the importance of a holistic approach to the development and education of an individual. Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the association between NCF with PA, Cardiovascular Fitness (CVF), and psychological determinants in Irish youth mean age 12.25 years, at a crucial time point in their development. Specific attention was given to identifying whether a specific level of PA contributes to efficient NCF, while also investigating a potential model to demonstrate the importance of a holistic approach to the development and education of an individual. Methods: Information was gathered on participants (n = 262) levels of PA (Actigraph Accelerometer GT1M, GT3X, or GT3X+), CV (20m progressive shuttle run test), NCF (Reaction time (RTI) Attention (AST), Working Memory (SWM), Cognitive Flexibility (RVP) and Executive Functioning), health and wellbeing (KIDSCREEN 27) and academic achievement (AA). Results: This study reported that Light PA, Moderate PA, MVPA, Vigorous PA and CVF associated with NCF. A model of all variables was developed to demonstrate the importance of a holistic approach to child development. Path analysis (AMOS 21) demonstrated a good fit for this proposed model (NFI = .863, TLI = .998, CFI = .996 and RMSEA = .007). Conclusion: Preliminary findings suggest that performance in NCF tasks are associated with specific PA intensity levels and CVF. The statistical significance of the proposed model highlights the importance of a holistic approach in the development and education of an individual. Future Recommendations: A longitudinal study is warranted to monitor and evaluate the development of NCF and the proposed model in preadolescence as they progress through to adolescence years. Adolescence is a time where a lot of change occurs with potential effects on NCF development. Research is needed on the effect of pre-and- post PA on NCF. This thesis along with previous research has demonstrated that there is a relationship between PA intensity levels, CVF and NCF.
Metadata
Item Type:Thesis (Master of Science)
Date of Award:November 2018
Refereed:No
Supervisor(s):Issartel, Johann and Belton, Sarahjane
Subjects:Medical Sciences > Psychology
Social Sciences > Education
DCU Faculties and Centres:DCU Faculties and Schools > Faculty of Science and Health > School of Health and Human Performance
Use License:This item is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License. View License
ID Code:22665
Deposited On:22 Nov 2018 10:56 by Johann Issartel . Last Modified 13 Sep 2019 03:30
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