Game-assisted learning in physical education for fundamental movement skill development in school-age children: a systematic literature review

Jurnal Riset Tindakan Indonesia June 21, 2026 Volume 11, Number 1 4 authors

Abstract

The initial search identified 378 records, which were reduced to 364 after duplicate removal. Following title-and-abstract screening, 118 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, of which 50 met the inclusion criteria for full synthesis. Inclusion criteria comprised English-language original articles published in peer-reviewed journals between 2020 and 2026, addressing motor or psychomotor outcomes operationalized as performance on a validated locomotor, manipulative, or psychomotor assessment instrument within physical activity, physical education, or rehabilitation contexts involving game-based or technology-assisted interventions; exclusion criteria removed conference papers, editorials, and studies lacking such measurable motor outcomes. Title-abstract and full-text screening were conducted independently by two reviewers, with inter-rater agreement quantified using Cohen’s kappa (k = 0.81 and k = 0.86, respectively), and methodological quality of included studies was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Thematic synthesis revealed four major findings: exergaming and active video games produce consistent short-term gains in gross motor proficiency and muscular fitness; immersive VR and robotic-assisted training enhance task-specific motor control but show limited evidence of transfer to real-world performance; gamified pedagogy increases situational interest, enjoyment, and executive function alongside motor outcomes; and effects are moderated by population characteristics, dosage, and implementation fidelity. These findings carry theoretical implications for motor learning and self-determination frameworks, and practical implications for PJOK curriculum design, teacher training, and inclusive adaptation for learners with special educational needs. Future research should prioritize longer follow-up periods, standardized FMS assessment batteries, and rigorously controlled trials in authentic school settings.

Authors

  1. Gita Sundari

    Universitas Negeri Padang

  2. Anton Komaini

    Universitas Negeri Padang

  3. Damrah Damrah

    Universitas Negeri Padang

  4. Nuridin Widya Pratono

    Universitas Negeri Padang

Keywords

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