The impact of blended learning in improving fitness elements and knowledge among sixth grade students and their trends in Jordan

The purpose of this study is to find out the impact of using modern teaching methods (blended learning) in the development and improvement of the elements of fitness in sixth grade students and increase their knowledge in the importance of physical fitness and its elements as well as students' trends towards applying this type of learning. In this research study, the methodology of quantitative research approach was used. The study sample consists of 30 male students and 30 female students and was randomly chosen from two schools follow to the Educational Directorate of Ajlun during the first semester of academic year 2017/2018. Blended learning and conventional learning were applied in the school A and school B, respectively. A training program was conducted for 14 weeks. To measure the extent impact of blended learning on the students’ performance in physical fitness elements, Three tests were performed, during (after 7 weeks from start of the training program) and after implementing the training program. Two tests of knowledge were conducted before and after implementing the training program to measure the impact of blended learning on students' knowledge in the importance of physical fitness and its elements. I distributed a questionnaire after completion of the training program on the students to measure their trends towards applying the blended learning in the physical education course. The result of pre-test, mid-test and post-test of blended learning showed the students’ performance level in physical fitness significantly improves during training program. The blended learning gave a positive and significant impact towards students’ achievement in the fitness elements. Besides, the result of three paired tests of the conventional learning group showed the conventional learning has a role and impact in improving students' physical skills, but this impact is still far less than the blended learning impact. The use of blended learning method was a positive experience on improving the knowledge level of students in physical fitness elements and its importance and benefits. In addition, students’ trends also responded positive towards the blended learning implementation in the physical education course. Furthermore, this study has provided theory contribution in terms of trend and knowledge towards applying of the blended learning.