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Laura Jones Petranek, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Graduate Program Coordinator, Department of Kinesiology

Portrait of Dr. Laura J. Petranek

Laura J. Petranek earned her Ph.D. in Physical Education with a cognate in Developmental Foundations and an emphasis in Motor Learning from the University of South Carolina. She earned her M.A. in Physical Education from California State University, Chico. She came to Boise State University in 2005.

Her areas of interest revolve around the broader field of motor behavior and is committed to areas of research that encourage lifelong learners and movers through the promotion of developmentally appropriate movement programs. Specifically, within motor learning and development, Dr. Petranek has explored the following areas: attentional focused instruction & feedback among young learners in physical educational settings, youth sport specialization, contextual interference, concussion education and awareness among youth sport coaches. She has also explored areas of student perceptions of engagement and learning using mobile technology in the classroom. Dr. Petranek is an affiliated scholar with the Center for Physical Activity and Sport (CPAS) and serves as the Director for the Summer Youth Sports Program.

Contact Information:

Phone: (208) 426-4366
Email: laurajonespetranek@boisestate.edu
Curriculum Vitae upon request
ScholarWorks Page

Research Interests:

  • Attentional focused instruction and feedback among young learners
  • Coaching education, specifically concussion awareness in youth sports
  • Student perceptions of engagement and learning with mobile technology

Select Publications:

Paul, D., Scruggs, P., Goc Karp, G., Ransdell, L., Robinson, C., Lester, M., Gao, Y., Petranek, L. J., Brown, H., & Shimon, J. (2014). Developing a statewide childhood body mass index surveillance program. Journal of School Health, 84(10), 661-667.

Petranek, L. J., & Barton, G. (2011). The Overarm Throwing Pattern Among U-14 ASA Female Softball Players: A Comparative Study of Gender, Culture, and Experience. Research Quarterly for Sport and Exercise, 82, 220-228.

Jones, L., & Petlichkoff, L. (2008, May). Early sport specialization vs. quality physical education. NAKHEPE Chronicle, 19(2), 5-7.

Jones, L., & French, K. E. (2007). Effects of contextual interference on acquisition and retention of three volleyball skills. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 105, 883-890.

Rink, J., Jones, L., Kirby, K., Mitchell, M., & Doutis, P. (2007). Teacher perceptions of a physical education statewide assessment program. Research Quarterly for Sport and Exercise, 78, 204-215.

Courses:

  • KINES 105 Instructional Yoga and Pilates
  • KINES 362 Coaching Methods and Administration
  • KINES 375 Human Growth and Motor Learning/Lab
  • KINES 560 Motor Learning