CATCH - PHYSICAL-ACTIVITY PROCESS EVALUATION IN A MULTICENTER TRIAL

This paper presents the process evaluation model for the physical acti vity intervention component of the Child and Adolescent Trial for Card iovascular Health (CATCH) and describes the major procedures used to m onitor CATCH PE, the physical education intervention. The paper focuse s on CATCH PE teacher training and in-service support as well as on th e curriculum implementation. Monitoring training and support included assessing the in-service training workshops and the follow-up on-site assistance provided by staff. Monitoring the implementation included a ssessing the quantity and quality of CATCH PE instruction in terms of student physical activity engagement and lesson context, the fidelity of the curricular implementation, and the opportunities for other phys ical activity by children throughout the school day.