Showing papers by "Robyn L. Jones published in 2012"

The Sociology of Sports Coaching

Abstract: Sports coaching is a social activity. At its heart lies a complex interaction between coach and athlete played out within the context of sport, itself a socio-culturally defined set of practices. In this ground-breaking book, leading international coaching scholars and coaches argue that an understanding of sociology and social theory can help us better grasp the interactive nature of coaching and consequently assist in demystifying the mythical 'art' of the activity. The Sociology of Sports Coaching establishes an alternative conceptual framework from which to explore sports coaching. It firstly introduces the work of key social theorists, such as Foucault, Goffman and Bourdieu among others, before highlighting the principal themes that link the study of sociology and sports coaching, such as power, interaction, and knowledge and learning. The book also outlines and develops the connections between theory and practice by placing the work of each selected social theorist alongside contemporary views on that work from a current practicing coach. This is the first book to present a critical sociological perspective of sports coaching and, as such, it represents an important step forward in the professionalization of the discipline. It is essential reading for any serious student of sports coaching or the sociology of sport, and for any reflective practitioner looking to become a better coach.

Developing coaching pedagogy: seeking a better integration of theory and practice

Abstract: Despite evidence that experience within practical coaching contexts serves as the principal knowledge source for coaches, academic (and professional) coach education programmes continue to be heavily taught along didactic lines. Such courses are often considered as fine in theory but divorced from the gritty realities of practice. The aim of this article was to construct and evaluate a pedagogical framework (delivered through an MSc unit) drawn from tenets of both action research and ‘communities of practice’ as a means through which the practice-theory gap can be somewhat addressed. The unit in question involved students being introduced to a particular theoretical position with the expectation that they would integrate that theory into their practice in the upcoming week. The students then shared their experiences in structured discussion groups during the following class. Data on student learning were gathered both through on-going observations, and focus groups interviews with staff and students at th...

‘Handshakes, BBQs, and bullets’: self-interest, shame and regret in football coaching

Abstract: This autoethnographic story explores the competitive, calculating, and often uncaring world of performance football coaching Particular attention is given to the dilemmas I (the first author) faced, the choices I made, and the consequences of my actions within the coaching context Bauman's work on liquid relationships is suggested as a lens through which my story can be viewed By highlighting its political and emotional nature, this article seeks to contribute to an evolving problematic epistemology of sports coaching; one that seeks to extend beyond continuing rationalistic and ‘heroic’ accounts of practice