Gamification in adapted physical activities: an inclusive strategy to improve academic performance in students with mild motor disabilities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v70.117134Keywords:
Academic performance, curriculum adaptation, gamification, inclusion, Physical EducationAbstract
Introduction: Gamification has emerged as a methodological strategy capable of fostering motivation and inclusion in school settings, particularly in physical education, where barriers to participation for students with motor limitations still persist.
Objective: To analyze the application of gamification in adapted physical activities as an inclusive strategy to improve academic performance in students with mild motor limitations within the Ecuadorian context.
Methodology: A quantitative approach was used with a quasi-experimental design involving a control group and an experimental group. The study included 28 students aged 10 to 12, selected through non-probabilistic sampling. Data collection instruments included checklists, structured surveys, document analysis, and pretest and posttest academic performance evaluations. The experimental group participated in a gamified intervention consisting of 16 sessions over eight weeks.
Results: The experimental group showed a significant improvement in active participation and academic performance, in contrast to the control group, which maintained stable results. A positive correlation was identified between the level of participation and the academic scores obtained.
Discussion: The findings align with previous studies highlighting the positive impact of gamification on student motivation, participation, and learning. Recent literature supports its effectiveness in inclusive educational contexts and its contribution to improved academic outcomes in physical education.
Conclusions: It was concluded that gamification, when applied in an adapted and structured manner, proved to be an effective strategy to promote inclusion and enhance academic performance in students with mild motor limitations.
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