Abstract

Introduction Research in physical education increasingly compares linear and non-linear teaching for invasion games. The present study examined how these frameworks affect technical execution and game-based decision-making in handball.Methods A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest study (5 weeks) assigned students to a Linear model (progressive, repetitive practice) or to Non-Linear Pedagogy (ecological dynamics, task representativeness). Technical skills were measured with the Zinn Handball Skills Battery and the Johanson Ability Test; tactical performance with the Game Performance Assessment Instrument in representative scenarios. Inter-rater reliability was established among independent observers.Results Both groups improved technical execution from pre- to post-test. The Linear group showed greater gains in precision-based tasks (passing, shooting), whereas the Non-Linear group improved more in tactical dimensions (decision-making, off-the-ball support). ANOVA indicated significant main effects of time but no group x time interaction; intra- and inter-group contrasts revealed differentiated developmental patterns.Discussion Findings suggest complementary strengths: linear instruction favors technical refinement, whereas non-linear approaches promote adaptability, perception-action coupling, and context-sensitive responses.Conclusion Educators should adopt flexible, learner-centred programming integrating both models to align with learners' developmental needs.