February 23, 2011

Physical education and health conference planned

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The Seventh Annual Southern Illinois Physical Education and Health Conference at Southern Illinois University Carbondale offers elementary and secondary educators and coaches, and University students, a special opportunity in March.

There were no physical education/health conferences south of Springfield when SIUC launched its event, and the success of the conference is evident in that 135 people attended in 2010, according to Tony Calabrese, kinesiology instructor.

“The conference highlights the outstanding Southern Illinois physical education and health programs and gives teachers and small schools the chance to see good programs and things they can implement with the students in their schools. Participants will learn to employ team building, adventure education, out of classroom experiences and other elements to improve and enhance their programs,” Calabrese said.

The conference runs from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 11 at Davies Hall on the SIUC campus. The theme is “Show Your S.T.U.F.F. -- Strategy, Techniques, Understanding, Fitness and Fundamentals in Physical Education.”

Hands-on learning is the order of the day. Educators, coaches and students will network, share ideas and techniques, and explore physical education and health activities that are appropriate for elementary and secondary students. Calabrese noted that the conference is relevant not just for those who are involved in health and physical education instruction, but also for anyone working with youths. He also said each session will include a team-building component, assuring it is applicable for all teachers and educational areas.

Tentative seminar topics include: team building, teaching on a small budget, using the A.E.D. defibrillators, special populations and autism, gym bowling, orienteering, cup stacking, physical education environmental education, physical education standards, heart rate activities, making class more effective, Frisbees and boomerangs, circus and juggling events, technology and more.

The early registration deadline is March 4 but you can still register at the conference. The cost is $85 for professionals who pre-register or $95 if registering on site. SIUC kinesiology students can attend free; students who aren’t in the kinesiology program can attend for $15. The conference registration fee includes lunch. Kinesiology student participants may purchase lunch for $5.

The registration form is online at https://www.dce.siu.edu under the heading “conferences.” For more information or to register, you can also contact the Division of Continuing Education at 618/536-7751. Professionals can earn Continuing Professional Development Units for completion of the conference.

The SIUC Department of Kinesiology and the Division of Continuing Education are sponsors of the Seventh Annual Southern Illinois Physical Education and Health Conference.