Effects of Multimedia in PE

Article: The Effects of Multimedia Computer Assisted Instruction on Learning the Swimming Basic Skills for Physical Education Students.

This study showed us that students using multimedia had a greater increase in basic swimming skills. The researcher believed that this improvement was not only due to use of the multimedia tool, but the tools ability to interact with learners and meet their various needs. The students with the multimedia program had the ability to analyze and correct the errors in the skill performance. One of the most common ways they did this was by observing a movement and comparing it to the desired movement pattern of the skill. They used video and pictures with this program.

Video is so powerful in the physical education setting. When performing any skill the student does not know what they look like. They can imagine what they look like, but it is often not a correct interpretation. This is especially true with lower level physical education classes. The ability to watch demonstrations and then perform to expected levels may be very difficult for those that may lack coordination or the strength to perform such skills. When given verbal feedback students may not have the knowledge to make corrections or the ability to understand that they are not completing the desired task. Taking video of any skill followed by video analysis of that skill will provide students with an enhanced opportunity to excel. Students can pin point specific attributes of their own skills to correct, modify to help efficiency and then master any physical skill. Using video in my class is something I have been toying with for a couple years. The hardest part is finding the most efficient way to share this video to the students. There are several apps I have tried: Coaches Eye (costs money), hudl Technique (sharing is not efficient), Flipgrid (have not tried in class, but excellent for sharing and allowing student feedback). As I continue to pursue video in class it will extend to sharing instructional videos as well as using video for formative assessment and skill mastery.

Metwaly, D. (2016). The effects of multimedia computer assisted instruction on learning the swimming basic skills for physical education students. Series Physical Education & Sport/Science, Movement & Health, 16(1), 49-53.