Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research
Articles in Press

Game-based approaches in higher education physical education: A systematic review

Arief Abdul Malik (Indonesia University of Education)
Adang Suherman (Indonesia University of Education)
Sucipto Sucipto (Indonesia University of Education)
Tite Juliantine (Indonesia University of Education)
Fegie Rizkia Mulyana (Siliwangi University)



Article Info

Publish Date
06 Nov 2026

Abstract

Background: Game-based approaches are increasingly used to develop tactical understanding and game performance in physical education. However, evidence regarding their implementation and effectiveness in higher education remains limited compared with K–12 settings.Objective: This systematic review examined research trends, learning outcome domains, assessment instruments, and reported effects of the Tactical Games Model (TGM), Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU), and related hybrid models among university students.Methods: This systematic review followed the PRISMA 2020 reporting guidelines. Scopus was searched for experimental or intervention-based studies published between January 2021 and August 16, 2026, involving university students enrolled in physical education or sport-related programs. Of 205 records identified, six studies involving 507 participants met the eligibility criteria. Findings were synthesized narratively.Results: The included studies primarily focused on team sports and assessed cognitive, psychomotor, affective, and psychological outcomes. The Game Performance Assessment Instrument (GPAI) was among the assessment tools used. The studies generally reported favorable outcomes in tactical performance, game understanding, motivation, engagement, and selected psychological measures. However, heterogeneity in interventions and assessment methods limited comparisons across studies. Evidence was insufficient to establish whether hybrid models consistently outperformed single-model approaches.Conclusion: Game-based approaches may support multidimensional learning outcomes in higher education physical education. Nevertheless, the evidence remains limited to six heterogeneous studies identified through a single database. Broader literature searches and rigorous comparative studies using validated assessment instruments are needed to strengthen the evidence regarding their effectiveness.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

pes

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

The Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research is an international peer-reviewed journal that publishes original research papers and reviews the fields of physical education, physical rehabilitation, and sports training. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research published two ...