Programs in the Division of Kinesiology are now designated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), thanks to recent approval by the State of Florida.
The change in the Classification of Instructional Programs, codes designed to report outcomes in higher education by specific disciplines and professions, will give CHPS its first STEM programs, said David Fukuda, Associate Professor and Chair, Division of Kinesiology.
Additionally, Fukuda said, “This process took several years, and we increased the number of STEM-based courses required for graduation in order to be evaluated for the new CIP.”
Programs with the new CIP code focus on the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and biophysics of human movement, and applications to exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation. They also include instruction in biomechanics, motor behavior, motor development and coordination, motor neurophysiology, performance research, rehabilitative therapies, the development of diagnostic and rehabilitative methods and equipment, and related analytical methods and procedures in applied exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation.
“This change better reflects the teaching and practice of kinesiology and exercise science,” Fukuda said. “Our students need to have a solid understanding of the science behind what we do – and they should also have more career options as a result of this new designation.”
According to the National Science Teachers Association, a common definition of STEM education is “an interdisciplinary approach to learning where rigorous academic concepts are coupled with real-world lessons as students apply science, technology, engineering and mathematics in contexts that make connections between school, community, work and the global enterprise enabling the development of STEM literacy and with it the ability to compete in the new economy.”
“This approval by the Florida Board of Governors validates the quality of education being provided in our Division of Kinesiology classes,” said Jeffrey Stout, professor and founding director for the School of Kinesiology and Physical Therapy. “Beginning immediately, all Kinesiology programs are classified as STEM courses. This means that not only will our graduate and undergraduate students continue to receive a comprehensive education in the scientific study of the mechanics of human movement, but they will also be among the best-prepared workforce our university has to offer.”
