AquaPlay: A Gamification-Based Innovative Swimming Training Model for Children

Swimming lessons for elementary school children often face challenges such as a lack of motivation, fear of water, and monotonous teaching methods. To address this, the AquaPlay model integrates gamification to create a fun, engaging, and developmentally appropriate swimming training. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the AquaPlay model to improve students' swimming skills, motivation, and enjoyment. Using the ADDIE framework, the model was validated by seven experts and assessed for practicality by 20 teachers. A total of 80 subjects participated, including 50 students for engagement testing and 30 for effectiveness trials. The model showed high validity (Aiken's V = 0.85), acceptable reliability (ICC = 0.634), and strong student engagement - 56% Very High, 36% High, and 8% Moderate. The practicality score averaged 88.6%. Effectiveness was confirmed via Mann-Whitney test (W = 0, p < 0.0001), with the intervention group improving swim times by 15 seconds on average, compared to 1 second in the control group. AquaPlay proved effective, practical, and enjoyable, overcoming barriers such as boredom and water anxiety, and enhancing children's endurance and participation.