Effect of Micro-learning Units Method Using Specific Exercises to Develop Explosive Power and Improve Performance Learning and Achievement in Shot Put for Students

Abstract

Backgroud: The aim of the present study is to develop and apply an instructional program based on small, condensed learning units, along with specifically designed exercises to teach the shot put event to students. The research has two basic purposes; the first is to find out the effect of this method of instruction on the development of explosive power on the basis of the learning process and the second to investigate the effect of the small-unit learning method combined with the special exercises on the refinement of technical execution and the increase of achievement level in the learning activity of shot put among students who constitute the experimental class.

Methods: The research approach used is experimental method which is considered one of the best and reliable technique to get scientific knowledge about a certain problem. This is because it can predict results, control the variables of the study, and make it easier to draw conclusions and understand the causes of the study. The goals set by the researcher and the methodology chosen for the implementation of the goals had a significant impact on the type and composition of the target population and the sample selected from it. The researcher determined the study population to be the first-year students of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences (CPES) with a total of 600 students spread in six academic sections. These sections were chosen by random selection (drawing of lots) and subsequently, Section (C) (24 students) was selected as the experimental group. Following removal of students who were ill or not making sufficiently well, there were 20 students in the experimental group. This group was given instructions through small education units method with specific exercises. In a parallel drawing method, section (W) was drawn as the control group, which was the normal method used with physical education lessons. A similar group of 20 students was assigned to this group in a random lottery procedure, so that all students could be equitably divided between the two groups.

Results: The results of the study indicated that the teaching based on small learning units together with the specific exercises had a significant impact on the learning process of a shot put skill. This method had been proven to improve the physical abilities associated to the activity (such as explosive power) along with the psychological state of the pupils included in the sample, who showed a satisfactory level of strength.

Conclusions: That the small learning unit method with the use of special exercises was more effective than the conventional instructional method in physical education classes in terms of both learning and technical performance of the shot put and improving the overall level of achievement of the subjects of the sample.