Athletics Department

Dr. Archer's visit to our classroom adds to the understanding of American educational systems and their purpose by explaining athletics. Athletics started to build pride between the regions. They were very popular in the south and were tight to civil rights movements of including African American players in university teams. Sports also increased the awareness of discrimination, so universities to obtain title nine funds for scholarships must demonstrate proportionality.

The meaning of athletics is so different between both systems. In The USA, the athletic program is part of student integration and loyalty to their school. In DR sports are a personal area of interest and teams are not used to increase university image or improve student commitment but to increase student well-being.

Benefits for US schools include increasing school spirit and gaining publicity and marketing. Aspects of benefits for schools also include revenue, resources and, scholarships. The sports division reflects an American sports tradition, success image, and pride.

There is a controversy between athlete’s creative learning strategies and regular learning strategies. A support system is placed for athletes, so programs are friendlier to them.  They serve to comply with the academic requirements and athlete development.

The economics of these programs were unimaginable for many of us in the class. How can a program receive a subsidy, make money and still lose money?

A subject of discussion was the transition for athletes once eligibility is over, and studies are focusing on addressing these topics to understand how to help athletes once the move along their career and work life.