Department of Exercise Science
Faculty
Gary Johnson (1994). University Professor of Physical Education and Department Chair. B.S., Union University; M.S., University of Memphis; D.A., Middle Tennessee State University.
Kelly Elliott (2004). Assistant Professor of Physical Education. B.A., King College; M.A., East Tennessee State University; M.Ed., University of Louisville.
Mission Statement
The Department of Exercise Science strives to instill in students a lifetime desire to serve church and society through the mediums of physical activity, exercise, and sport. Our task is to introduce students to knowledge and skills in order to develop a healthy lifestyle for optimum living and service.
Curriculum
The Department of Exercise Science believes physical education to be that part of the total educational program which adds its unique contribution through the medium of activity or movement. The Department emphasizes the acquisition of motor skills as of value for lifetime physical recreation activities, the development of socially desirable habits and attitudes, and knowledge, which contribute to the overall aims of education.
Aims of the Department are:
- To prepare exercise science professionals for many career channels; and
- To foster scientific knowledge and behavioral attitudes for optimum development of health through fitness; and
- To prepare students for post-baccalaureate education; and
- To develop physical skills for lifetime use; and
- To cultivate socially desirable characteristics through physical activity.
More specifically, the Department has as its center the philosophy to develop a greater quality of life for all people. To ensure this, the faculty stress leadership and communication through each program offered. Growth and development of each individual should occur when exposed to physical activity, exercise, and sport. The department also aims to teach the value of the meaningful use of leisure time to improve personal wellness and serve church and society. Exercise Science majors are taught how to produce prescriptive personal lifestyle programs.
Assessment of Majors
Exercise Science majors are assessed in multiple classes during their curriculum to assure progress toward learning outcomes. Students must score 80% or better on each assessment to demonstrate mastery of each course. Courses that are currently assessed are PEWS 414, PEWS 415, PEWS 433, and PEWS 461. Data collection for these assessments is the responsibility of the Exercise Science department chair. Annual reporting to the Provost's office takes place at the end of each academic year.
Student Awards
An academic medal will be given to the outstanding graduate in Exercise Science. Faculty will vote when multiple students are eligible for the academic achievement medal for a discipline. Students are honored at awards day in the spring, or at the graduation ceremony for December or summer graduates.