Improving university students’ engagement in physical education through differentiated instruction and motivational strategies

This study aims to enhance university students’ engagement in physical education (PE) by applying a set of differentiated instructional strategies and motivational interventions. Declining levels of student participation in PE present a significant challenge in higher education institutions, necessitating pedagogically sound solutions. A quasi-experimental study was conducted at M.Kh. Dulaty Taraz University with 473 undergraduate students from four faculties. The intervention comprised individualized grouping based on fitness levels, theoretical modules on health literacy, flexible class formats (including outdoor activities), and motivational events such as sports competitions. Engagement was measured using pre- and post-intervention questionnaires and statistically analyzed via t-tests and ANOVA. The intervention yielded statistically significant increases (p < 0.001) in student engagement across all measured dimensions, including participation frequency, intrinsic motivation, and satisfaction with PE. Differentiated, student-centered instructional models combined with motivational support significantly improve engagement in university PE settings. The study provides a scalable framework for educators and administrators to improve PE program effectiveness, support student well-being, and foster lifelong healthy behaviors through targeted pedagogical innovations.