Analyses of Eighth Graders’ Olympic Values

• In Event: Poster Session 4
  In Poster Session: Research Focus on Education and Sport SIG 164 Poster Session

Abstract

Using an international education database, TIMSS, this study investigates eighth graders’ five Olympic values: Friendship, Respect, Excellence, Determination, and Inspiration, and another variable - Time playing sports outside of school, in seven countries. The study compares the Olympic values between males and females; and reveals relationships of the Olympic values with students’ academic achievement, attitudes toward school and enjoyment of learning about three subjects. The results demonstrate that students’ values of Determination and Inspiration need to be strengthened during middle school period, and the Olympic values are strongly correlated with students’ academic study and attitudes, especially the values of Excellence and Determination. The findings offer worldwide perspectives of Olympic values for improvement of students’ physical education and academic performance.

Authors

• Shu-Ling Lai, Asia University

• Patrick Porter, Houston Independent School District

• Renmin Ye, Houston Independent School District