AI-Supported and Traditional Tennis Training in Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities

This study is designed as a qualitative and comparative investigation examining the learning experiences of children with mild intellectual disabilities aged 12-18 in acquiring basic tennis skills through two different instructional approaches: a real-time pose recognition technology-supported method and a traditional face-to-face teaching method.

The technology-supported intervention will be implemented using a real-time pose estimation system based on the MediaPipe framework. This system provides immediate visual feedback by analyzing participants' body movements and identifying deviations from correct movement patterns. In the traditional instruction group, teacher-centered methods such as demonstration, verbal explanation, and corrective feedback will be used.

The intervention will last for 14 weeks, with training sessions conducted three days per week for 45 minutes each. The instructional content is structured into two phases: the first seven weeks will focus on forehand stroke development, while the remaining seven weeks will focus on backhand stroke acquisition. Both groups will aim to develop fundamental tennis motor skills appropriate for beginners with intellectual disabilities.

Data will be collected through a socio-demographic information form, semi-structured interviews, and field notes. Interviews will be conducted at multiple stages of the intervention (week 7, week 14, and post-intervention) to explore participants' learning experiences, perceptions of the instructional methods, motivation levels, and challenges encountered during the learning process.

Qualitative data will be analyzed using content analysis. Codes and themes will be generated to compare learning experiences across the two instructional approaches. The study aims to provide an in-depth understanding of how technology-supported instruction influences motor skill acquisition and engagement in physical education settings for individuals with mild intellectual disabilities.

Inclusion criteria

• Aged 12-18 years
• Diagnosed with mild intellectual disability
• Willing to participate voluntarily in the study
• Able to attend regular training sessions (3 days per week for 14 weeks)
• No severe physical condition preventing participation in physical activity
• Right-hand dominant

Exclusion criteria

• Withdrawal of consent by participant or legal guardian
• Irregular attendance in training sessions or inability to complete the intervention program
• Missing at least one of the scheduled interview sessions
• Presence of severe physical or medical conditions that may limit participation in tennis activities
• Inability to follow basic instructions during training sessions