Outline and analyse the role of sport in improving educational outcomes for Indigenous learners.

EIP310 : Teaching Indigenous Learners Tutor: John Prior

How can sport be used to improve educational outcomes for indigenous learners?

Sport can ....

motivate students

improve attendance rates

Interesting sports programs can motivate students to attend

Students who dont meet minimum attendance requirements arent allowed to play

increase engagement

Education NRL-style: One metre at a time Cherbourg State School in Queensland have implemented a reading program which uses ideas from National Rugby League (NRL) rules. Classrooms are divided into NRL teams. Through attendance, work ethic and behaviour students gain 'metres' on a virtual field.

10 metres are automatically awarded if a team has 100% attendance.

Further metres are given where students have read or completed puzzles at home Physical activities are played outside for extra metres.
(Korff, 2011)

provide positive role models

develop confidence & self-belief

create pathways

strengthen cultural identity

Realise its ok to lose sometimes

Co-ordination & motor skills

Sportsmanship

enhance life skills

Learn to focus & work towards goals

Communication skills

Teamwork

encourage healthy & positive lifestyles

increase cultural awareness

build school - community partnerships

A success story The Clontarf Foundation

Above: The inaugural Northern Territory Leaving for Work Dinner; a celebration of the outstanding achievement of 64 Year 12 students in completing their Secondary School studies, November 2011.

Left: The Queen visits in October 2011

(Clontarf Foundation, 2011)

Carefully structured school programs can utilise sports very successfully to improve academic outcomes for indigenous students

References