Integration: The Key to Sustaining Kinesiology in Higher Education

Abstract

Integration is the key to sustaining kinesiology as an academic and professional discipline in higher education. Following the vision of Amy Morris Homans, this paper focuses on integration in three ways. First, integration of our multidisciplinary scholarship, with a clear focus on physical activity, is essential to sustaining kinesiology as a unique scholarly area in higher education. Second, integration of academic scholarship and professional practice is essential to sustaining kinesiology as a scholarly profession. Finally, integration implies an active commitment to inclusion and public service, and that is critical to give meaning and relevance to kinesiology. At its best, kinesiology is an integrative professional discipline that serves the public by promoting health and well-being for all through physical activity. All forms of integration are integral to sustaining kinesiology in higher education.