People

Spyridoula Vazou is an associate professor of Kinesiology, working in exercise psychology and pedagogy. Her research interests focus on developing (a) physically active environments to promote learning, cognitive function and academic performance, and (b) strategies to motivate youth to be physically active. To fulfill these objectives, her research activities are centered mainly on the qualitative characteristics of physical activity and the integration of physical activity with academics in the classroom. Using a whole-child development approach, Vazou has developed classroom-based integrated physical activity programs implemented in schools in Iowa (e.g., iowaswitch.org, moveforthought.org), funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Her recent research project, funded by Kinder Ferrero, includes the development, evaluation and implementation of the “Joy of Moving and Learning” program for Save the Children summerboost camps in the U.S., to help prevent the summer learning loss among underserved children.

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