Benefits and Contributions of Sports and Physical Education in Schools: A Scientific Evidence

Abstract

This review-based study explores the literary evidences that have highlighted the advantages and contributions the sports and physical education programs make in both intellectual development of school children and educational systems as well. Outcomes of the research is illustrated in relation to the development of children in numerous domains such as “social, affective, cognitive, physical, and lifestyle.” The scientific evidence based on corresponding reviews suggests that sports and physical education can make distinctive and significant contributions to the children development in each of the afore-stated key aspects. It is therefore suggested that sports and physical education also have potential to make significant contributions to the children’s overall development of physical competences and related skills, which are considered as important precursor of their participation in sports associated activities and lifestyle. When appropriately guided through, can also help them in the development of social behaviours, social skills, self-esteem, pro-school attitudes, and, in some conditions, cognitive and academic development. Previous research, also emphasizes that such benefits will not necessarily gained through children participation in sports related physical activities, it may likely to mediate its impact by the varying nature, cause and level of the interactions between students and their teachers, coaches and parents to whom they work with. Contexts that is characterised by enjoyment, positive experiences, diversity and engagement; and are managed by trained and committed coaches and teachers, and informed and supportive parentssignificantly impact the likelihood of the success of such activities