Australia researches the MQ Scan part 2

A while ago an article about the Athletic Skills Track, or MQ Scan, which was published in the Journal of Sports Sciences back in February 2019, was published on our website. Australian preschool children were assessed with the MQ Scan in comparison to another motor skills test: Test for Gross Motor Development-2 (TGMD-2). In the previous article we discussed the validity of the TGMD -2 test. In this article we will further discuss the practical applicability. This was also looked into and found to be positive for preschool care.

Practical implementation
Part of the research consisted of obtaining feedback about the practical implementation of the MQ Scan from five members of staff. On based on a semi-structured interview with them, the practical implementations of the MQ Scan were tested. Staff feedback as to acceptability, demand, implementation and practicality and integration was then collected and evaluated.

The following positive statements about the MQ Scan were interesting to read:

• All staff members agreed that the MQ Scan was quick and easy to use. Four of them said that the obstacle course was fun to do for the children;
• Four staff members said that a test like the MQ Scan was necessary to help the staff evaluate children. All members confirmed they would like to use the MQ Scan again;
• All members found the MQ Scan suitable for all staff members;
• The respondents would include the MQ Scan in their curriculum, when the MQ Scan was in line with their pre-school goals;

Conclusion
The preschool staff considered the MQ Scan feasible and suitable for pre-school care. Therefore it could be considered as an alternative to current Fundamental Movement Skills tests, such as the TGMD-2, because it takes up much less time. In addition, the scan allows pre-school staff to assess children without the involvement of clinical expert, such as a physiotherapist. This allows the tests to be taken more frequently, which makes it easier to detect if a child has poor motor skills.