Research Report: Diploma in Sport Coaching and Administration for The Royal University of Bhutan Paro College of Education, Bhutan

Abstract

The Dean of Academic Affairs, Paro College of Education (PCE), Bhutan, Dr Dorji Thinley made initial contact with the School of Education Health and Physical Education and Sport Studies Team at the University of New England (UNE) to garner an expression of interest pertaining to the conduct of research into the viability of their proposed Sport Coaching and Administration Diploma. During his visit to Australia in March 2011 two exploratory meetings were held at which the proposed terms of agreement and several other matters, such as data collection and an examination of literature relevant to the project were discussed. In the weeks following these negotiations the requirements of the initial proposal were clarified. The final purpose of the proposal was to conduct an investigation to identify whether there is or is not sufficient educational demand, supported by evidence, to initiate and develop a Diploma in the area of Sports coaching and Administration. An additional requirement was to synthesize data into a coherent, practical document. This Report is based upon a similar report conducted by Arthur (2011), and essentially condenses a range of information gleaned from various sources tracing a number factors, commencing with a global approach to Sports, then factors affecting demand of Sports coaches, and concluding with an in situ analysis of ninety-seven (N=97) surveys, undertaken in Bhutan. Also included are interview data, which were transcribed, and analysed for themes and relevant information. Furthermore, written statements from thirty-nine individuals were coded for consideration. Throughout the report there are Comments and these are shaded. These comments are for serious consideration when examining this Report's recommendations.