Center for Olympic Studies: A meaningful experience in university sports education

Abstract

The Center for Olympic Studies of the Institución Universitaria ‘Escuela Nacional del Deporte’ (Colombia) has established itself as a benchmark in university education, especially in the field of sports. This article analyzes a significant experience in which the Center played a crucial role in integrating Olympic and sporting values into the institution's curriculum, thus responding to the need to train qualified professionals committed to the Olympic spirit and promoting sport as an educational and personal development tool. The initiative was designed according to the guidelines of the International Olympic Committee and the Spanish ‘Academia Olímpica’, taking into account elements related to teaching, research and social projection of the institution, so that a work plan was configured in several phases. The overall experience was positive. Students demonstrated a greater knowledge and appreciation of Olympic values, in addition to improving their practical and theoretical skills related to sport and physical education. Among its advantages are the strengthening of teamwork, professional ethics and social commitment. However, some limitations have been identified, such as the need for more material resources and the difficulty of maintaining the attention of all students. Expanding collaboration with sports institutions and incorporating innovative educational technologies are suggested as possible solutions. In conclusion, the integration of the Center into university education has proven to be a very enriching experience with great impact in the fields of sport and education. Expanding the program to other universities and creating international collaborative networks are future lines of development. The transferability of this experience is high so that other educational institutions can replicate and adapt this successful model to promote holistic education through sport and Olympic values.