Competing Conceptions of Competition: Implications for Physical Education

Abstract

This paper considers various conceptions of competition. Distinctions are made between positive and negative consequences of participating in competitive activities and between views that competition is intrinsically positive or negative. When examining and critiquing the nature of competition the root word (com-petitio: to strive together) is highlighted. From this, it is argued that the proposition that competition is intrinsically selfish cannot withstand an analysis of what is meant by 'selfish :The paper concludes that competition is intrinsically positive, and furthermore, that participation in competitive activities provides the opportunity to develop skills in the pursuit of excellence. Finally, the paper discusses the implications of viewing competition as 'striving together' for teachers and students in a physical education context.

Competition in Physical Education: Avoid, Ask, Adapt or Accept?

“…Drewe (2000, p. 79) argued that "Physical education must take seriously the teaching of sport as the competitive activity it is meant to be if physical education is to fulfill its role as an educative activity." The background for this claim was an earlier analysis of competition and the role it should play in physical education (Drewe, 1998). More specifically, Drewe (1998) argued that competition is too often reduced to simply a matter of winning and losing.…”

“…The background for this claim was an earlier analysis of competition and the role it should play in physical education (Drewe, 1998). More specifically, Drewe (1998) argued that competition is too often reduced to simply a matter of winning and losing. This represents a one-sided and limited conception of competition, because it does not take into account the original meaning of com-petition, which is to "strive together."…”

Attitudes and Perceptions of Middle School Students Toward Competitive Activities in Physical Education

“…Students experience a variety of both sport and competitive activities that are offered during the school year. The use of competitive activities in physical education class might be used to promote physical activity and develop skill, build character, promote sportsmanship, and prepare students to live and work in a competitive environment (Brown & Grineski, 1992;Drewe, 1998;Goldstein & Iso-Ahola, 2006;Hager, 1995). The competitive activities presented may either enhance participation interest in the activity, or may exclude students from successful and enjoyable participation experiences and detract from interest in participating in the activity presented (Brown & Grineski, 1992;Kohn, 1999;Solmon, 1996;Ntoumanis, 2001).…”

A Avaliação De Competições Esportivas De Jovens: Definição De Categorias E Aplicações Ao Handebol

“…As competições esportivas de jovens devem ser elaboradas com metas distintas dos cenários competitivos orientados aos adultos, assentando-se em seu caráter pedagógico e sobrepujando tendências como a especialização precoce, que pode levar ao elevado desgaste dos jovens expostos à sobrecarga emocional e física, desencadeando situações de abandono da prática esportiva (CHOI;JOHNSON;KIM, 2014;CÔTÉ;BAKER;ABERNETHY, 2007;DREWE, 1998;FRASER-THOMAS;CÔTÉ, 2006;LLOYD;OLIVER, 2012).…”