Identification of Strengths in Sports Talent Identification in the Iranian Education System

Abstract

Iran, as a country with a young population and significant sporting potential, requires an efficient and scientific system for identifying and nurturing sports talents. Addressing this issue provides an opportunity to identify strengths, resolve challenges, and develop strategies that could lead to a fundamental transformation in the sports talent identification process. The purpose of this study was to identify the strengths of sports talent identification in the education system of Iran. The research was applied in purpose, and field-based in data collection, utilizing a mixed-methods approach (quantitative and qualitative). The qualitative sample consisted of experts in the field of sports talent identification within the education system, while the quantitative sample comprised over ten thousand physical education teachers across the country. The sample size for the qualitative section was 15 individuals, and in the quantitative section, 384 physical education teachers were selected using the Morgan sampling table, through a convenience sampling method. Data analysis was conducted using the Friedman ranking statistical method, employing SPSS26 software. The results showed that the strengths in the management of sports talent identification within the education system were identified as 23 factors. Among these, early identification of talents, use of various evaluation techniques, collaboration with parents, and attention to holistic development were ranked first to fourth, while continuous assessment was ranked last. The findings indicated that sports talent management within Iran's education system possesses several strengths, the identification and utilization of which could significantly improve the process of talent identification and development. Based on these findings, it is necessary for Iran’s education system to adopt a comprehensive and scientific approach to strengthen and leverage these strengths, with a focus on addressing challenges. This could be a crucial step towards the sustainable development of sports in the country.