Impact of Preseason Concussion Education on Student Athlete Concussion Knowledge

Abstract

This study partially replicated Johnson (2015) to examine the extent of concussion knowledge in Division II university athletes following preseason concussion education. Four of the twelve Division II athletics teams at the research university were selected for this study. All participants received preseason concussion education by their respective Athletic Trainer. A total of 41 participants completed a 20-question knowledge test that was based on a NCAA Concussion Fact Sheet. Results indicated that all participating athletes were fairly knowledgeable about the subject of concussions, on the average of over 19 on a 20-full score. However, it cannot be determined if that knowledge is due to the preseason concussion education that they received because there was no control group who did not receive the education. There were no significant differences in concussion knowledge by sports risk of concussion, gender, or number of practicing hours. The only significant finding was for the question, "A concussion is typically accompanied by a loss of consciousness" with "False" as its answer. The percent correct for Male (77.3%) was significantly lower than for Female (100.0%). This information indicates that the preseason educators should address this misinterpretation to Male athletes (Football and Male Basketball teams) with special attention. Two other questions with lower percent correct were noted.