Promoting Healthy Competition Using Modified Rules and Sports from Other Cultures

Abstract

A great controversy around the concept of competition exists, not only among researchers but also among teachers, parents, and even the participants themselves. An overemphasis on competitive sports and unhealthy competition has overshadowed the positive benefits of sport participation, including character and moral development and self-improvement, which are traditionally associated with competition. An increasing number of educators argue that collaborative skills, rather than competitive skills, are more essential in today's society. Cooperative learning is promoted as a suitable approach to prepare students for the demands of the 21st century. On the other hand, there are those who believe competition is a big part of adult life in any culture and that it should therefore be incorporated into the educational system. This article looks at the original meaning of “competition” and how it has evolved to the present day. It presents ideas for modifying rules and implementing activities from other cultures, which can intensify the benefits of competition while reducing the potential negative effects.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Phoebe Constantinou

Phoebe Constantinou ([email protected]) is an associate professor in the Department of Health Promotion and Physical Education at Ithaca College, Ithaca, NY.