SOPARC Online App: System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities

SOPARC is a validated direct observation tool for assessing physical activity and associated people and environmental characteristics in park and recreation settings.
To request templates and counters for collecting this type of data, contact Terry Marsh.
Use the SOPARC AppUser Guide to the SOPARC Online App
The full-text User Guide is available online. Click on the links below to go to specific parts of the guide.
- Purpose, Rationale, and Procedures
- Validity and Reliability
- Park Mapping Guide
- Observation Preparation
- SOPARC Online App (A step-by-step guide)
- Recording Procedures for Walking Paths
- Timing of Observations
- Keywords and Coding Conventions
- Data Graphing and Exporting
- Bibliography and References
- Appendix
How to Obtain a Training DVD
The website activelivingresearch.org provides information about how to order a training DVD to practice direct, systematic observation of parks.
Contact Us
If you have questions, email either Deborah Cohen or Terry Marsh.