Options
Assessing table tennis technical proficiency in individuals with disabilities: A scoping review
Citation
Kong, P. W., & Ma, C. M. S. (2024). Assessing table tennis technical proficiency in individuals with disabilities: A scoping review. Applied Sciences, 14(11), Article 4815. https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114815
Abstract
Table tennis is a sport that is enjoyed by many, including those with physical and intellectual disabilities. This scoping review summarised the current test protocols for assessing table tennis technical proficiency in individuals with disabilities. Relevant articles were searched through four databases (Scopus, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science) covering three key aspects: disability, table tennis, and technical proficiency. The search resulted in 14 studies included for data extraction, covering physical impairments, intellectual disability, and development coordination disorder. Almost all studies (93%) were conducted on well-trained para-table tennis athletes competing in high-level competitions. There exist protocols to assess service accuracy and stroke accuracy, hand–eye coordination, quality of specific skills and ball control, functional reach, and trunk rotation. The forehand topspin and backhand topspin drives were tested the most. Table tennis robots and video cameras are the common equipment used. Moving forward, future research should develop technical proficiency tests for players across all competency levels. The skill assessment criteria and scoring methods should be standardised and clearly explained. The validity and reliability of tests should be established. Lastly, there is great potential in using artificial intelligence to enhance the assessment of table tennis proficiency in individuals with disabilities.
Publisher
MDPI
Journal
Applied Sciences
DOI
10.3390/app14114815
Project
RP 9/22 KPW
Funding Agency
Ministry of Education, Singapore