Thesis Abstract

Abstract

Participation in extracurricular sports activities has been associated with numerous benefits for high school students, including improved physical fitness, enhanced social skills, and better academic performance. However, despite these advantages, many students choose not to engage in sports activities outside of regular physical education classes. This study aims to analyze the factors influencing participation in extracurricular sports activities among high school students.

The research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys and school records with qualitative data from focus groups and interviews. The study will investigate the impact of various factors, such as socioeconomic status, parental involvement, peer influences, access to facilities and resources, and perceived barriers and motivators, on students' participation in extracurricular sports activities.

The findings of this study will contribute to the understanding of the underlying determinants of participation in extracurricular sports activities and inform the development of targeted interventions and policies to promote greater engagement among high school students.

Thesis Overview

Chapter 1: Introduction

Background 

Extracurricular sports activities play a significant role in promoting physical activity, social development, and overall well-being among high school students. Numerous studies have highlighted the benefits of participation in sports, including improved cardiovascular health, increased self-esteem, better time management skills, and higher academic achievement12. Despite these advantages, many high school students remain disengaged from extracurricular sports activities, potentially missing out on valuable opportunities for personal growth and development.

Participation in extracurricular sports activities is influenced by a complex interplay of individual, social, and environmental factors. These factors may include socioeconomic status, parental support, peer influences, access to facilities and resources, and personal motivations and barriers3. Understanding the relative importance and interplay of these factors is crucial for developing effective strategies to promote and sustain student engagement in extracurricular sports activities.

Significance of the Study This study aims to contribute to the understanding of the factors influencing participation in extracurricular sports activities among high school students. By analyzing the impact of various individual, social, and environmental determinants, the research will provide valuable insights into the underlying drivers and barriers to student engagement in sports activities outside of regular physical education classes.

The findings of this study have the potential to inform the development and implementation of targeted interventions and policies aimed at increasing participation in extracurricular sports activities among high school students. By identifying the key factors that promote or hinder participation, schools, communities, and policymakers can develop tailored strategies to address specific barriers and leverage motivating factors to encourage greater student involvement.

Research Objectives The primary objectives of this study are:

1. To analyze the impact of individual factors (e.g., socioeconomic status, personal interests, perceived barriers and motivators) on participation in extracurricular sports activities among high school students.
2. To investigate the influence of social factors (e.g., parental involvement, peer influences, cultural norms) on students' engagement in extracurricular sports activities.
3. To examine the role of environmental factors (e.g., access to facilities and resources, transportation, safety concerns) in shaping participation rates in extracurricular sports activities.
4. To identify potential strategies and recommendations for schools, communities, and policymakers to promote greater participation in extracurricular sports activities among high school students.

By addressing these objectives, the study will provide valuable insights into the multifaceted determinants of participation in extracurricular sports activities, contributing to the development of effective interventions and policies to foster student engagement and promote overall well-being.

Footnotes

1. Feldman, A. F., & Matjasko, J. L. (2005). The role of school-based extracurricular activities in adolescent development: A comprehensive review and future directions. Review of Educational Research, 75(2), 159-210. https://doi.org/10.3102/00346543075002159 ?

2. Fredricks, J. A., & Eccles, J. S. (2006). Is extracurricular participation associated with beneficial outcomes? Concurrent and longitudinal relations. Developmental Psychology, 42(4), 698-713. https://doi.org/10.1037/0012-1649.42.4.698 ?

3. Steinberg, L. D., Dornbusch, S. M., & Brown, B. B. (1992). Ethnic differences in adolescent achievement: An ecological perspective. American Psychologist, 47(6), 723-729. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.47.6.723 ?