AZRINA MD AZHARI, NURWINA ANUAR AND MOHAMAD NIZAM NAZARUDIN
DOI: https://doi.org/This study is a needs analysis aimed at developing a Mental Skills Module (MSKILL) for the Physical and Health Education subject for gifted and talented students in Malaysia. The specific objectives were to identify student’s perceptions of the need for the module, determine the relevant constructs to be included in its design and assess the areas of mental skill weaknesses that should be addressed in the module content. A total of 214 students from a national gifted education center participated in the survey using two structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive and multiple linear regression analyses. Findings revealed that students possessed moderate levels of overall mental skills with significant weaknesses in anxiety and worry management, self-confidence and motivation. Students showed a high level of readiness and interest in a structured mental skills module. They also preferred content that included visual aids, clear learning objectives and accessible language. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that among the seven mental skill domains assessed, only mental imagery significantly predicted student’s perceived need for the module. These findings support the inclusion of key constructs in the module’s development and highlight the importance of incorporating preferred strategies and support mechanisms aligned with student’s needs.
