Perceptions and attitudes of tutors of Colleges of Education towards student-athletes in selected variablesof behaviour in Upper East region of Ghana

Abstract

This study investigated the perceptions and attitudes of tutors of Colleges of Education towards student-athletes in selected variables of behaviour in the Upper East Region of Ghana. A quantitative research approach was used for the study. The research techniques used were the descriptive method along with the correlation method. The significance of the study was that it would provide insights to tutors on how they can adopt a favourable attitude towards students who participate in athletics. The study again would provide invaluable information which can serve as basis for planning in service training for tutors of Colleges of Education to upgrade their professional competencies with regard to modifying their teaching methodology vis-a-vis the organisation of sporting activities in the colleges. The study would also provide data which can serve as a springboard for further research into other areas of physical education. Three research questions were raised. The instruments used were questionnaires for both students and tutors. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and correlations. The descriptive statistical analysis revealed that indeed tutors’ had a negative perception and attitude towards student-athletes. Only a few tutors’ had a positive attitude towards student athletes. The findings of the study also revealed that students were affected by the tutors’ attitudes and perceptions about them. Some recommendations were that there is the need to create awareness of the negative effects tutors’ attitudes have on the academic lives and work of student- athletes. There is also the need to do away with the negative perceptions and attitudes of tutors against student-athletes in various schools, institutions, and colleges in Ghana. There is the need for schools, colleges and institutions to provide various support systems for student-athletes to help them combine athletics with their academic work