Impact of Flipped Classroom Instruction on Brain-Mediated Motor Skill Performance in University Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates how the flipped classroom model-considered as a neurocognitive training environment-affects cognitive-motor integration and brain-mediated motor skill performance in university students, providing scientific evidence for optimizing higher-education physical education pedagogy (a course related to physical literacy and the cultivation of physical and mental health, rather than a training program for professional physical education teachers).

Methods: In order to compare the effects of flipped classroom and traditional teaching on the motor skill performance of university students, this study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis according to PRISMA rules, whereby studies were screened according to specific inclusion criteria and data were extracted, assessed for quality, and then meta-analyzed to assess the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model in improving motor skill performance.

Results: A total of 12 original randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the study. The meta-analysis results indicated that the flipped classroom model significantly outperformed traditional teaching methods in improving university students' motor skill scores (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.22, 95% CI = 0.64-1.79, p < 0.0001). Subgroup analysis showed significant effects in both general major students and sports science major students, with no significant difference between studies conducted in China and those conducted in non-China regions.

Conclusions: The flipped classroom model demonstrates significant advantages over traditional PE teaching methods in improving motor skill performance. It enhances students' skill acquisition and classroom engagement, showing promising potential for future implementation in university PE programs. Further research should explore the model's applicability across different sports and student populations, as well as its long-term impact on skill retention and postgraduation sports participation.

Keywords: flipped classroom model; meta-analysis; physical education; sports performance; university education.

Figure 1

Screening process for this study.

Figure 2

The results of the meta-analysis. The dotted line in the text is the standardised mean differences after combining the effect sizes.

Figure 3

Subgroup analysis results by student population. The dotted line in the text is the standardised mean differences after combining the effect sizes.

Figure 4

Subgroup analysis results by region of the original studies. The dotted line in the text is the standardised mean differences after combining the effect sizes.

Figure 5

Funnel plot. The sloping dotted lines are confidence intervals, the vertical dotted lines are combined effect sizes, and the circles represent the included research studies.