"Kinesiology, derived from the Greek words kinesis (movement) and kinein (to move), also known as human kinetics, is the science of human movement. It is a discipline that focuses on Physical Activity" (News-Medical.Net).
Kinesiology as an academic science emphasizes knowledge of the body through the study of movement and exercise physiology. Kinesiology also contributes to the intellectual, social, emotional, spiritual, and physical growth and development of each student. Other areas of study in Kinesiology include public health (HLTH 101 Introduction to Public Health), nutrition (HLTH 202 Nutrition for Fitness), healthy lifestyles, stress management, as well as psychological aspects of physical activity, and injury care and prevention (KIN 141 Athletic Training I,KIN 142 Athletic Training II and ALDH 141 Athletic Training I, ALDH 142 Athletic Training II and certificates for Athletic Training). Additional specialties within the discipline of Kinesiology which are more fully addressed in the curriculum at Victor Valley College are Dance and Adapted Physical Education. A variety of activities are offered, encouraging students to develop lifelong fitness activities and patterns for recreation.
With the exception of the Adapted Physical Education courses, all Kinesiology and Physical Education activity classes are intended for normal, healthy, individuals. It is highly recommended that anyone 35 years or older have a physical checkup before enrolling. Kinesiology is required for the Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees and all Kinesiology, Kinesiology Dance, Health, and Adapted Physical Education courses fulfill this requirement.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate social responsibility to improve quality of life for others and ensure equitable access for diverse groups by creating appropriate environments to initiate and maintain a physically active and healthy lifestyle.
- Critically evaluate forms of information related to Kinesiology and physical education, the student’s personal health and public health, including nutrition.
- Recognize fundamental concepts of physical activity, nutrition, and health, and apply critical thinking to solve problems from the student’s personal perspective and a public perspective.