The Effect of Game-Based Learning Using Small-Sided Games on the Performance of the High Serve Skill in Badminton among Beginner Female Students

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a game-based learning strategy using small-sided games on improving the performance of the high serve skill in badminton among beginner female students. The study employed an experimental design with a pre-test and post-test for two groups. The participants consisted of 40 first-year female students from the College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences at the University of Baghdad. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group (n = 20), which was taught using a game-based learning strategy involving small-sided games, and a control group (n = 20), which followed the traditional teaching method based on explanation, demonstration, and repetitive drills. The experimental program lasted eight weeks, with two instructional sessions per week. A standardized badminton high serve skill test was used to measure the participants’ performance before and after the instructional program. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests, including paired samples t-test and independent samples t-test. The results revealed significant improvements in both groups between the pre-test and post-test measurements. However, the experimental group showed significantly greater improvement compared with the control group in the post-test results. The findings suggest that game-based learning using small-sided games provides an effective teaching strategy for enhancing motor skill acquisition and improving badminton serve performance among beginner students in physical education settings.