A pilot mixed-methods study on the impact of Aronson puzzle and body expression on motivation and classroom social climate in primary education
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v71.111040Keywords:
aprendizaje cooperativo, educación física, estudiantes, colaboración, infanciaAbstract
Introduction and Objective. This pilot study analyzes the effects of a cooperative learning intervention, based on the Aronson Puzzle technique and Body Expression (BE), on intrinsic motivation and social climate in Primary Education. The objective was to explore how these methodologies can improve student motivation and the classroom environment in the context of Physical Education (PE).
Methodology. The intervention, composed of eight structured sessions with BE activities, was designed to foster collaboration and active engagement. A mixed-method approach was used with 26 fourth-grade students (9-10 years old), integrating quantitative and qualitative data to capture the multidimensional impact of the proposal.
Results. Quantitative data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test, calculating effect sizes (e.g., r = 0.45 for intrinsic motivation). The results showed statistically significant increases (p < .05, r = 0.45) in intrinsic motivation and notable improvements in the classroom social climate (interest, satisfaction, communication). The qualitative component was developed through semi-structured interviews, analyzed with conventional content analysis, along with observations and a field diary for triangulation. The data showed an increase in enjoyment, engagement, and positive peer interactions.
Conclusions. The findings demonstrate that these cooperative methodologies not only enhance academic motivation but also positive social dynamics. It is recommended that the study be expanded with larger samples and control groups to confirm its long-term impact. This work contributes to the literature on holistic development in education through cooperative strategies.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Patricia Andújar Ruzafa, Jorge Giménez-Meseguer, Alberto Ferriz-Valero, Iván López-Bautista, Salvador Baena-Morales
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