Bridging Sports and Physics: Exploring Experiential Learning, Motivation, and Conceptual Gains among Highschool Students

Abstract

This study explores the impact of sports-integrated physics instruction on high school students studying the Indian curriculum in Qatar. A mixed-methods investigation involving 120 students in grades 11 and 12 across four Indian community schools revealed that integrating sports into physics instruction significantly enhanced students’ comprehension of physics concepts, boosted their motivation, and fostered more positive attitudes toward learning the subject. The intervention incorporated diverse sports contexts including soccer, basketball, cricket, tennis, swimming, and track events to teach fundamental physics principles. Pre- and post-test assessments demonstrated substantial improvements in conceptual understanding, with 80% of participants successfully applying physics concepts to sports situations. Survey data indicated a 32% increase in self-efficacy and a 28% increase in perceived relevance. Qualitative analysis revealed students valued concrete visualization, collaborative learning, and cultural relevance. This paper provides implementation guidance for practitioners while acknowledging methodological limitations. Findings suggest sports-based instruction can enhance both learning and motivation in physics education.