Kids in Motion Lab
About the Lab
The Kids in Motion (KIM) lab studies where and when physical activity occurs, how we can measure this behavior and its context, and how this information can be used to design environments that promote physical activity.
History
The USU KIM Laboratory was founded in 2022 by Dr. Clevenger.
Research Opportunities
Our work is at the intersection of kinesiology, geography, epidemiology, and computer science, so students with a variety of interests are welcome to join the lab. Undergraduate students and those interested in pursuing a master's or doctoral degree are encouraged to contact Dr Clevenger. We are currently conducting research in the following areas:
Current Projects
We assess changes in child outcomes like physical activity, problem behaviors, and weight status, following modifications to the playground or classroom environment.
We aim to assess how accurate and consistent different accelerometers and analytic approaches are for capturing physical activity behaviors in adults and children.
We use accelerometers and/or GPS devices to assess where, when, and how children are physically active, to inform activity-promoting interventions, and explain differences between groups (e.g., boys and girls).
We aim to develop new ways of capturing physical activity or play and its context, such as Bluetooth, RFID, or people-counters.
Lab and Facilities
Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER)
The KIM lab is housed in HPER 105 and has access to the following equipment:
- Research-grade accelerometers for the measurement of physical activity, sleep, and sedentary behavior
- GPS trackers for capturing where people are active and spend time
- Video cameras and tablets to conduct in-person or video direct observation
- A variety of devices to assess environmental exposures, like 360 degree cameras, Aeroqual air quality sensors, and a SolarMeter UV monitor
Involvement
If you are interested in getting involved, contact Dr. Clevenger. Please note that availability within the lab is determined by the needs of the current projects. Visit the Research Opportunities page for this lab to learn more.
Kimberly Clevenger
Assistant Professor
Kinesiology and Health Science