SOPLAY is a validated tool for directly observing physical activity and associated environmental characteristics in free play settings (e.g., recess and lunch at school). SOPLAY provides objective data on the number of participants and their physical activity levels during play and leisure opportunities in targeted areas. Separate scans are made for males and females, and simultaneous entries for contextual characteristics of areas including their accessibility, usability, and whether or not supervision, organized activities, and equipment are provided. The predominant type of activity engaged in by area users is also recorded (e.g., basketball, dance).

A free 27 minute SOPLAY/SOPARC Introduction, Practice, and Assessment Training DVD is available from Active Living Research. Electronic download and hard copy DVD are available.

SOFIT WEBINAR: Active Living Research hosted a web-based seminar titled Using Systematic Observation to Research School Physical Education and Physical Activity Programs on May, 20, 2015. The session explored the importance of using direct observation to assess physical activity in schools, discussed common research topics assocated with using this methodology, and provided advanced information on the SOFIT and SOPLAY tools. The full webinar presentation, including audio, is available for free here.