Development of an observational measure assessing program quality processes in youth sport

Abstract

Research has demonstrated that quality sport programs have the potential to foster the physical and psychosocial development of youth. However, there is an absence of observational measures to assess program quality related to psychosocial development within youth sport. The purpose of this paper is to report on two studies conducted to develop a valid and reliable observational measure to assess program quality processes in youth sport. Study one outlines the process of attaining content and face validity using an expert panel approach when developing the Program Quality Assessment in Youth Sport (PQAYS) observational measure through a review of literature and collaboration with expert academics and coaches. Study two outlines further steps taken to test the internal reliability, as well as convergent and predictive validity of the measure. Results from the two studies provide initial evidence that the PQAYS is a valid and reliable measure that can be used in intervention and evaluation research within youth sport.

Keywords

• positive youth development
• measurement
• psychometrics
• coaches
• program quality