Evaluation of Play Skills of Primary School Students Playing Traditional Children's Games

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the physical activity levels and game performances of primary school students participating in traditional children's games. A survey model, one of the quantitative research methods, was used in the research. The sample of the research consisted of 16 students who participated in the final matches of traditional children's games in the 2021-2022 academic year and were determined according to the game region. In the research, data were collected by using the “System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time (SOFIT)” and “Game Performance Assessment Instrument (GPAI)” through the behavioral observation method. Descriptive statistics, Mann Whitney U test, and correlation analysis were used in the analysis of the data. According to the research findings, while the students showed the most standing behavior, the level of moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was at the desired level. It has been determined that the GPAI components are at a medium level in the case of skill application, while the other components are at a good level in decision-making, support, game participation, and performance. No significant difference was found in MVPA and game performance by gender. While a positive significant relationship was found between MVPA and the GPAI component of game performance, no significant relationship was found between MVPA and other GPAI components. As a result of the research; it was concluded that primary school students playing traditional games had good MVPA levels and sufficient game skills. Based on the results of the research, it can be suggested to use traditional games in physical education lessons and to create lesson content for the development of tactical awareness of students.