The study by Sallis et al from 2001 used a cross-sectional study design to assess the association between school environmental characteristics and levels of student physical activity among 1081 children from 24 schools. The study observed students before and after school and at recess using the SOPLAY method to measure moderate to vigorous physical activity, and examined how area type, area size, permanent improvements, and average park attendance related to physical activity levels. The results showed that school environments with high levels of supervision and improvements stimulated girls and boys to be more physically active.

1. Variables Subjects
Author, Title, Year Subject Magnitute
Journal Published Purpose Study Design Outcome Predictors Sample Size Charac. Data Sources Comments of effect?
Sallis, et al The 2001 assess school env cross sectional # of environmen 24 schools, 43% non SOPLAY used sch environments
Association of characteristics with children tal 1081 white, 39% to observe with high levels of
engaged in variables:
School levels of student students on free or students supervision and
mod to vig area type,
Environments with physical activity phys act / area size, reduced, before and improvements
Youth Physical Ave park permanent 38% bused after school stimulated girls and
Activity AJPH attendanc improvemen and at recess boys to be more
e ts active