Understanding Sources of Knowledge for Coaches of Athletes with Intellectual Disabilities
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Authors
Macdonald, Dany J.
Beck, Katie
Erickson, Karl
Côté, Jean
Date
2016-06-01
Type
journal article
Language
en
Keyword
Coach Development , Coaching , Knowledge , Special Olympics , Sport , Training
Alternative Title
Abstract
Background: Recent research has investigated development of coaching knowledge; however, less research has investigated the development of coaches who coach
athletes with intellectual disabilities. The purpose of this
study was to understand how coaches of athletes with
intellectual disabilities gain their knowledge.
Method Forty-five Special Olympics Canada coaches
participated in structured telephone interviews
investigating actual and ideal sources of coaching
knowledge. Coaching knowledge was categorized across
the dimensions of competition, organization and training.
Results Coaches primarily learned by doing and by
consulting with coaching peers. Information about ideal
sources of coaching knowledge demonstrates that
coaches would value structured coaching courses,
learning from mentors and from administrative
support, in addition to learning on their own and from
peers.
Discussion Results suggest that a broader approach to
education should be incorporated into coaching athletes
with intellectual disabilities. Recommendations for
achieving such goals are provided.