Abstract |
- The purpose of this study was to investigate physical education
and sport in Thailand and, based upon expert opinion, to develop a
blueprint of physical education and sport for the nation building of
Thailand. The investigation concentrated on the history, role and
function, purpose of governmental involvement, and future prospects of
physical education and sport in Thailand. Data were collected from
library sources and by interviews and opinionnaires from leaders of
physical education, sports organizations, and other concerned groups.
The study presents historical aspects which have affected the
development of physical education. Although the Thai people value
their traditional games, international sports have been recognized as
a means of establishing international relationships. Schools now
offer physical education programs, and professional preparation
institutions and national sports organizations have been established
to assist in the development of the nation and its people.
The role and function of physical education and sport, and the
purpose of governmental involvement, relate closely to national
ideologies in promoting ethnology and culture, national prestige,
fitness, internal relations, recreation, economics and commerce,
physical therapy, the military, politics, and international relationships.
The future prospects of physical education involve six
factors: human values, administrative needs, additional program
needs, financial needs, facilities, and governmental involvement.
Respondents in the study believed that the schools and sports organizations
should provide well-planned physical education and sport
programs for the public; that sports administration should be spread
throughout the kingdom; that facilities and sport training centers
need to be established; and that the government should give more
support, especially financially, to physical education and sport
development.
A blueprint for development was based on the analysis of results
of this investigation. The main factors were: dissemination, equipment
and facilities, physical education and sport in educational
institutions, professional preparation, administrative systems,
resource materials, promotion, participants, and international
cooperation. These involve changes in national policy and organizational
structures. Causes and effects were presented and policies
recommended for the development throughout the kingdom of physical
education and sports, which presently exist mostly in the City of
Bangkok. Implementation procedures were suggested for the utilization
of physical education and sports in the nation building of
Thailand.
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