The Mechanisms of Selection of Academically Excellent Pupils in Sport (A Field Study in Some Primary Schools in Constantine and Bordj Bou Arreridj)

Abstract

     The aim of this field research is to clarify the epistemological, theoretical and methodological background applied in the selection of talented students in sport. It also aims to shed light on the mechanisms and methods underlying the process of selecting physically excellent students at primary school level. The importance of this research lies in highlighting the importance of selection in the field of sport, as it serves the purpose of early identification of students with inherent and specific abilities, directed towards appropriate sporting activities that will enable them to reach high levels and potentially elite levels.

Consequently, it is necessary to provide them with the appropriate care to develop their talents and enrich them academically. In order to verify this, a descriptive-exploratory approach was used, which involves studying the phenomenon as it exists in reality, providing an accurate description. The study sample consisted of 10 teachers specialising in sports activities, who were purposively selected. In terms of data collection tools, semi-structured interviews were found to be more responsive to the research variables. Their reliability was calculated using the "Lauchey" equation. Data were collected and analysed using frequencies and percentages.

It was concluded that the process of sports selection goes through different stages, using specific criteria, and requires a certain amount of time depending on the type of sport. The most important factor remains the selection process during the early years of a student's athletic talent, allowing the talented child to develop their abilities and achieve maximum performance at an early age.