A Study on the Digital Application of OpenPose Skeleton Tracking Technology in Sports Dance Teaching in Chinese Universities from a Modernization Perspective

Abstract

With the modernization of sports, the application of digital technology in university physical education has gained increasing attention. This study explores the effectiveness of OpenPose skeleton tracking technology in sports dance instruction using a quantitative approach and an eight-week experimental intervention to evaluate students' movement accuracy, learning engagement, and skill improvement. The results indicate that intelligent-assisted teaching is widely recognized, with 95% of students reporting enhanced learning outcomes and interactivity. However, some teachers remain skeptical, highlighting the need for additional technical training. The experimental group demonstrated significantly higher motor skills (T = 7.435, P = 0.000) and overall scores (T = 2.64, P = 0.01) than the control group, confirming the effectiveness of the intervention. Performance improvements were notable in the first five weeks (P < 0.05) but plateaued after the sixth week (P > 0.05). OpenPose received a 72% satisfaction rate, significantly improving movement accuracy (92%), skill acquisition (92%), and motion correction (88%), though its impact on movement fluidity (56%) and injury prevention (80%) requires further optimization. In conclusion, OpenPose technology effectively enhances the quality of sports dance instruction, stimulates student interest in learning, and demonstrates the potential of intelligent technology in this field.