SPORT PEDAGOGY, PHYSICAL EDUCATION, AND ETHNICITY. A SCOPING REVIEW

Konstantinos D. Tambalis

Abstract


The present study investigates the relationship between ethnicity and sport pedagogy, emphasizing how ethnicity influences young individuals' engagement in physical education (PE) and sports, as well as their experiences as students and/or athletes. It specifically aims to identify how young people incorporate their ethnic values and beliefs into PE and sports, the challenges they encounter in merging their ethnic beliefs with physical activity (PA), and how their ethnic diversity may affect their participation in PE and sports. To achieve this objective, a review of various scientific articles published over the past two decades, along with relevant books, was conducted. The chosen studies address a range of issues related to ethnicities, cultural contexts, and forms of sports participation, spanning from school PE to specialized sports programs based on ethnicity. The analysis of these studies has resulted in three primary thematic areas: (a) assessing the impact of racial barriers on PE participation; (b) examining the influence of racism and stereotypes on classroom dynamics; and (c) proposing pedagogical strategies aimed at promoting inclusion and respect for diversity. Preconceptions and ethnicity significantly affect children's participation in and enjoyment of PE. Creating an equitable learning environment necessitates the implementation of pedagogical strategies that are attuned to cultural and ethnic differences. The remarkable and rapid advancement of communication processes, migration, and market expansion has increased opportunities for interaction among diverse cultural identities. Consequently, globalization challenges the boundaries of developing multicultural societies. There exists a notable risk that these procedures may intensify miscommunications, ethnic stereotypes, and disparities among individuals, potentially damaging interpersonal relationships. Stereotypes are problematic as they can cultivate bias, discrimination, and intolerance. To address this issue, planning strategies that empower society to effectively navigate significant societal transformations are essential. The capacity to reassess one's worldview, cultivate relationships with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds, and recognize that diversity enriches society is crucial for achieving effective intercultural communication. In light of the inherently multicultural context in which sports professionals operate, the sports industry—a critical component of a globalized society—must rise to this challenge. Our research findings indicate that ethnic stereotypes are present within the sports environment and PE being examined. Numerous international studies have demonstrated the considerable influence of these stereotypes on athletes' performance. Consequently, there exists a risk that PE and the sports sector may inadvertently reinforce prejudice, intolerance, and miscommunication among different ethnic groups. PE and sports must possess the capability to strategically plan to promote social and global harmony that embraces diversity.

 

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sport pedagogy, physical education, children, ethnicity, diversity

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejpe.v12i9.6278

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