At TinyEYE, we are dedicated to enhancing children's educational experiences through innovative approaches. One such approach in physical education (PE) is the Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU) model. A recent systematic review, "The Application of the Teaching Games for Understanding in Physical Education. Systematic Review of the Last Six Years," provides valuable insights into the efficacy of TGfU in school settings.
What is TGfU?
TGfU is a pedagogical model that emphasizes understanding the 'why' behind game strategies rather than just the 'how' of technical skills. It focuses on developing students' tactical awareness, decision-making, and problem-solving skills within the context of real or simulated game situations. This model contrasts with traditional methods that often emphasize repetitive skill drills and prescriptive exercises.
Key Findings from the Systematic Review
The review analyzed 12 articles published between 2014 and 2019, focusing on TGfU implementations in primary and secondary schools. Here are some significant findings:
- Variety of Contexts: The studies were conducted in diverse geographical locations, including Spain, Canada, Malaysia, Greece, the Netherlands, and China.
- Educational Stages: Research was almost equally distributed between primary (5-12 years) and secondary education (13-18 years), with a focus on the higher ages within each group.
- Short-Term Interventions: Most implementations were short-term, lasting between 9 and 18 lessons, highlighting the need for longer interventions to achieve significant outcomes.
- Research Methods: A balanced mix of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research was used, providing a comprehensive understanding of TGfU's impact.
- Content Variety: The studies covered a range of sports, including basketball, badminton, indoor soccer, floorball, handball, baseball, and volleyball.
- Learning Domains: TGfU positively impacted cognitive and motor domains, enhancing students' tactical knowledge, decision-making, and physical performance. However, the social domain was less frequently addressed.
Implications for Practitioners
The findings suggest several actionable steps for practitioners looking to implement TGfU in their PE curriculum:
- Longer Interventions: Consider extending the duration of TGfU programs to allow for deeper learning and more significant outcomes.
- Diverse Sports: Utilize TGfU across various sports to enhance students' overall physical literacy and engagement.
- Holistic Approach: Incorporate elements that address the social domain, such as cooperative learning, to provide a more rounded educational experience.
- Teacher Training: Invest in thorough training for educators to ensure they can effectively implement the TGfU model.
Encouraging Further Research
The review highlights the need for more research on TGfU, particularly long-term studies and those that explore its impact on the social domain. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of knowledge by documenting and sharing their experiences with TGfU implementations.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The Application of the Teaching Games for Understanding in Physical Education. Systematic Review of the Last Six Years.
