Positive Character Development in School Sport Programs. ERIC Digest.

This digest discusses the formal and informal processes of moral character development through sport in light of the types of programs that have shown to improve moral character, sportsmanship, and fair play, noting that such efforts involve combined lifelong formal and informal educational processes with three interrelated dimensions: knowing, valuing, and doing the right thing. Informal moral character development is highly influenced by the environment, as well as the mass media. Typical programs take advantage of teachable moments. Role modeling as an informal process of character education holds that leaders take responsibility for their actions and demonstrate good character. The formal process of character education is a direct and purposeful intent to affect character development, with individuals challenged to reflect upon moral issues, values, and principles in relationship to others and society, translating those reflections into good moral action. Formal character education can involve extensive study whereby athletes are challenged by peers, instructors, and themselves through reading, writing, discussion, and reflection on issues of honesty, fair play, responsibility, and decency toward others. Less time-intensive programs involve education through training videos. In contrast to informal programs, formal moral education programs are more difficult and time intensive to implement. (Contains 23 references.) (SM)