University of Tasmania, Australia

Project CrossMove is a quantitative research investigation exploring the developmental motor ability of children.

Human Movement lecturer, Dr. Scott Pedersen, is examining the benefits of using traditional and simulated exercise interventions to improve the efficiency of midline crossing reaching movements in children between the ages of 7 and 13. The ability to plan movements that cross the midline of the body as efficiently as movements to ipsilateral space has been considered by many in the field as a developmental motor milestone. Children that have difficulty negotiating this type of behaviour may experience limited success when participating in physical activity and sport.

Using traditional ball-bouncing games, juggling, and popular simulated exercise gaming systems, like those provided by the Nintendo Wii, this project aims to compare the efficacy of exercises that emphasise midline-crossing movements against those that do not. Outcomes from this project may help to inform school teachers how to plan and implement more developmentally appropriate physical education lessons.

This project was funded by the UTAS New Appointee Research Grant Scheme and will take place in the Skill Acquisition Laboratory on the UTAS-Launceston campus. Potential postgraduate students and honours students interested in conducting research in this area, or any related areas in the field of motor control, are encouraged to contact Dr. Pedersen to discuss participation in these or future projects.

For more information, please see the project website or contact:

Dr Scott Pedersen
Telephone: +61 (0)3 6324 3554
Email: Scott.Pedersen@utas.edu.au