Promoting inclusion and cognitive development through a basketball teaching laboratory

This experimental study investigated the benefits of a basketball-based educational workshop to improve selective attention and the ability to inhibit automatic responses in 70 children from a first-year secondary school. The intervention had a significant impact on social inclusion and behavioural self-regulation, particularly for students with difficulties in these areas. By integrating physical and cognitive activities, the lab promoted cooperation and strengthened peer relationships, making the school a more inclusive environment. Changes in cognitive abilities were assessed using the Stroop test, The Index for Inclusion measured pre- and post-intervention levels of social inclusion. Statistical analyses using SPSS (version 27) showed significant changes in participants' performance, demonstrating the effectiveness of structured physical activity in improving executive function and cognitive development. The results highlight the importance of practical and playful educational strategies, such as sports workshops, to promote cognitive growth and create a more welcoming and cooperative school environment. This study adds to the literature demonstrating the value of interventions that combine physical and social activities to improve both learning and inclusion.