THE INFLUENCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN AN OUTDOOR SETTING ON MEMORY

Abstract

This study explored the outcome setting of physical activity had on 2nd grade students’ memory. Specific attention was given to given to the vestibular system, in charge of balance and equilibrium. In order to understand how setting affected memory, a maze with specific stations was set-up inside the school and in an outdoor space with a pre- and post-memory test given before and after the 6-week maze study. Coupled with the post-memory test was a 12 command review, testing both the indoor and outdoor group of students on the number of commands they were able to memorize and execute correctly. Overall physical activity done in different setting seemed to have little difference on student’s memory; however, this study highlights inter-personal growth and higher command retention within students who participated in physical activity in the outdoor setting. In this way, outdoor physical activity may serve as a foundation for interpersonal outcomes within the school system.