| TEACHING PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORTS IN ISLAMIC UNIVERSITIES: A CONCEPTUAL AND RELIGIOUS APPROACH |
| Paper ID : 1437-SPORTCONGRESS |
| Authors |
|
Taher Afsharnezhad * گروه علوم ورزشی، دانشکده روانشناسی و علوم تربیتی، دانشگاه یزد |
| Abstract |
| Introduction: In the contemporary era, higher education is fundamental to holistic development, yet physical education in Islamic universities often lacks religious integration. This article contends that incorporating Islamic principles into PE curricula is crucial to reframe physical activity as an act of faith. Countering Western secular models that reduce sports to mechanical or commercial pursuits, this approach transforms PE into a practice nurturing physical, ethical, and spiritual development. This integration is particularly vital in Muslim societies, where it preserves cultural authenticity, strengthens resilience, and fosters social cohesion, preventing PE from becoming a superficial activity devoid of higher purpose. Methods: The study adopts a conceptual-analytical methodology, underpinned by a systematic review of primary Islamic sources—the Quran and authentic Hadith—and contemporary academic literature up to 2025. This qualitative synthesis bridges classical religious teachings on bodily stewardship with modern pedagogical scholarship, enabling a rigorous examination of core principles, instructional strategies, and contextual applications tailored to Islamic university settings, with particular reference to Iran and analogous Muslim contexts. Results: The findings demonstrate that core Islamic principles—tawhid, justice, balance, and ethical conduct—significantly enhance physical education frameworks. Effective teaching methodologies incorporate religious discussions into practical sessions and utilize digital tools for gender-sensitive instruction. To address practical challenges such as gender considerations and resource limitations, the study proposes segregated facilities, guidelines for modest attire, and specially developed Islamic-aligned curricula and digital platforms. These adaptations collectively transform sports into meaningful acts of devotion and social responsibility. Conclusion: An Islamic approach to PE is vital for integrating physical and spiritual development, promoting holistic well-being, and nurturing graduates grounded in faith. Universities in Muslim settings should reform PE curricula based on Islamic principles, provide teacher training on integrating religious perspectives, and develop appropriate gender-sensitive facilities. This framework offers practical guidance for implementing transformative, faith-based physical education. |
| Keywords |
| Physical Education, Islamic Approach, University Education, Religious Values, Physical Health, Body-Soul Balance |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
