Development of basic aquatic motor skills: A pedagogical proposal for the teaching-learning of swimming in heterogeneous groups

Abstract

The investigation, conducted with a cross-sectional and projective research approach, was undertaken at the Unidad Educativa Municipal Fernández Madrid, in Quito, Ecuador. The objective was to assess the development of basic aquatic motor skills in swimming instruction within heterogeneous groups and to analyze the teaching strategies used by the instructors. The study involved a sample of 34 students and 4 physical education instructors. Data were collected through surveys directed to both students and instructors, as well as a questionnaire given exclusively to the students to analyze their learning process.  The results showed that the students have limited knowledge of aquatic skills, which in some cases leads to fear or aversion toward swimming.  Additionally, it was found that the instructors lack a pedagogical guide tailored to the individual needs of the students, leading to uneven development of these skills.  Therefore, the research proposes the implementation of a six-week pedagogical strategy, structured by learning levels, to enhance the swimming teaching-learning process and address the specific needs of each student.