How Physical Literacy Affects Academic Performance: A Structural Equation Model Involving Physical Activity and Executive Function
Ye, Zheng Yan, Yuman Pan, Haoran Qian, Junwei Sum, Raymond Kim Wai
Ye, Zheng
Yan, Yuman
Pan, Haoran
Qian, Junwei
Sum, Raymond Kim Wai
Abstract
Although there is growing recognition of the importance of physical literacy on physical activity participation and health, few studies have examined its impact on academic performance, particularly among college students. To further understand the impact mechanism of physical literacy on academic performance, a double mediation model linking physical literacy and academic performance through physical activity and executive function was constructed. Methods: College students (N = 418) from China completed the Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument, International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form, Short Executive Function Scale and reported demographic information and average GPA. Then a partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM) was constructed since the goal of the model is predicting key target constructs. Results: The model has good reliability, convergent and discriminant validity. Physical literacy and physical activity have positive effects on executive function (β = 0.302, p < 0.001; β = 0.152, p < 0.05). Executive function has positive effects on academic performance (β = 0.171, p < 0.05). Physical literacy has a positive impact on physical activity as well (β = 0.315, p < 0.001). The mediation effects of physical activity and executive function were then further demonstrated by multiple linear regression analysis. In addition, significant differences in multiple domains were found in gender, grade, major, and monthly disposable income. Conclusion: Physical literacy, physical activity and executive function are important roles that can positively affect academic performance. Physical activity and executive function are mediating roles between physical literacy and academic performance. This may explain the heterogeneity of findings in previous studies regarding the effects of physical activity on academic performance. More research could develop practical measures for college students to enhance their physical literacy and final realize the improvement of their academic performance.
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Date
2024-09-20
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University of Wyoming Libraries
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Keywords
physical literacy,academic performance,executive function