Moving the next generation with AI: new tool improves kids’ motor skills

A new artificial intelligence tool is helping teachers and coaches build important motor skills in young children.

The world-first video-based assessment platform, Moving the Next Generation (MNG), offers a simple and cost-effective way to support improvements in foundational skills like hopping, jumping, skipping, throwing, kicking and catching a ball.

Researchers from Deakin University’s Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN) and the Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation (IISRI), in partnership with the Victorian Government, developed the machine learning platform for  teachers and junior sport coaches to more accurately assess movement skills in children, aged 4 to 12 years, and guide improvements in those skills.

IPAN Associate Professor Natalie Lander said MNG was a potential game changer for primary schools, sporting clubs and community groups, especially those working with vulnerable populations.

‘MNG allows teachers and coaches to perform expert-level evaluations quickly and accurately,’ Associate Professor Lander said.  

‘Using data from 1400 Victorian school children, MNG delivers 94% accuracy in kicking assessments and 95% accuracy in hopping assessments. This level of accuracy reduces the assessment burden on staff and allows them to get on with the important job of teaching and coaching.’

Associate Professor Lander said many Australian children lack the essential movement skills vital for their physical, social, and emotional development.

‘Motor competence includes basic movements such as jumping, throwing, and balance. These skills are linked to physical outcomes like increased physical activity, fitness and healthy weight but also contributes to school readiness, cognitive outcomes, social inclusion and self-esteem,’ Associate Professor Lander said.

‘The urgency for effective tools has increased due to the significant decline in physical activity rates among primary school aged children, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many children are now less active, less fit, and less engaged in formal and informal sport, and mental health issues are a real concern.

‘Junior sports and school programs play a crucial role in developing movement skills, yet many teachers and coaches don’t have the time or resources to accurately assess and address skill deficits.’

IPAN Research Fellow Dr Yuxin Zhang said MNG processes motor assessments in real-time, providing instant feedback through smartphones or tablets, without the need for expensive specialist equipment.

‘Compared to traditional methods, MNG significantly reduces the time and resources required, while maintaining high levels of precision,’ Dr Zhang said.

Testing of MNG was funded by Sport and Recreation Victoria, a branch of the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, with in-kind contributions from Deakin University. A full breakdown of results is available in the Journal of Motor Learning and Development. MNG is undergoing further testing ahead of full availability next year.

Deakin Media Release,  27 August 2025