Olympic Education – Perspectives, Challenges & Opportunities

Abstract

The present thesis analyzes Olympic Education both in theory and by studying its implementation in countries such as Greece and Cyprus. Olympic education is the educational process aiming at educating young people to Olympic values, taking into account elements of modern civilization. The Olympic Education Programme includes a set of actions that highlight the cultural and educational value of Olympic Games. These actions relate to knowledge, sport and social skills, values, attitudes and behaviours. They combine the ancient and modern history of the Games with learning skills related to the development of students' in the school and social environment. They refer to the sports spirit developed through the centuries – but they evolve further. Olympic Education connects the past with contemporary educational and cultural values, combining the development of the body with the spiritual dimension of man. The familiarization of students with the timeless educational values is achieved through games, events, experiential teaching and sporting activities, implemented in a creative educational environment. In the long run, the aim is socialization, communication and the peaceful coexistence of people and harmonious interpersonal relationships. Olympic Education aims to inform and educate young people to participate actively and honorably in sports, to enjoy and learn from them as athletes, spectators, volunteers or employees; even to develop skills that will be used creatively to their daily lives. The Olympic Games have the power to inculcate in the students the principles of accepting the different, the recognition of human rights, solidarity and cooperation. The content of the Olympic education program aims at fostering a positive attitude towards exercise and sport as a lifestyle, fair play and the true spirit of the Olympic Games. Olympic Education seeks to prepare informed citizens on Olympic Games, Olympism and sports, citizens willing to participate, not passive spectators.