Background of the Study
Religious education, with its emphasis on moral conduct, has the potential to shape ethical behavior in various domains, including sportsmanship. In Jos South LGA, Plateau State, schools incorporate religious teachings that stress values such as fairness, respect, and integrity—all of which are essential for ethical behavior in competitive sports (Adebisi, 2023). In this context, religious instruction is integrated into the curriculum not only to nurture spiritual growth but also to cultivate a sense of honor and ethical responsibility during sports activities. Students learn that the principles of good sportsmanship, such as playing fair and respecting opponents, mirror the moral guidelines emphasized in religious texts (Femi, 2024). In classrooms and on sports fields alike, educators use religious narratives to illustrate the virtues of humility and empathy, thereby reinforcing the importance of ethical behavior even under competitive pressures. The socio‐cultural environment of Jos South LGA further supports these values, as communal respect and unity are highly prized. Despite the evident overlap between religious values and sports ethics, there remains a gap in research exploring how religious education concretely influences students’ ethical considerations in sports. Anecdotal evidence suggests that schools with robust religious curricula report higher levels of fair play and respect during competitions. However, the mechanisms through which religious teachings translate into ethical sportsmanship have not been thoroughly examined (Uche, 2025). This study seeks to address this gap by investigating the influence of religious education on the ethical dimensions of sportsmanship. It will analyze how moral instruction provided through religious education can lead to more conscientious behavior on the field and contribute to overall character development (Emeka, 2023). Understanding these dynamics is critical for designing educational interventions that leverage religious values to foster ethical behavior in all aspects of student life.
Statement of the Problem
Although religious education is widely acknowledged for promoting ethical behavior, its specific impact on sportsmanship among primary school students in Jos South LGA, Plateau State, remains underexplored. Instances of unsportsmanlike conduct, despite the inclusion of moral instruction in the curriculum, indicate that the benefits of religious teachings may not automatically translate into ethical sports behavior (Okafor, 2023). While many educators attribute fair play and respect on the field to religious values, the persistence of aggressive or unethical behavior during sports events suggests that other external influences—such as peer pressure or competitive stress—may dilute the intended effects (Chukwu, 2024). This discrepancy poses a significant challenge for educators and sports coordinators striving to create environments that consistently reflect the ethical ideals of religious education. Furthermore, the competitive nature of sports sometimes creates situations where moral principles are overlooked in favor of winning, thereby undermining the very teachings intended to promote sportsmanship. The lack of focused research on this topic leaves a critical gap in understanding how religious education can be effectively harnessed to improve ethical considerations in sports. This study aims to systematically examine the relationship between religious instruction and ethical sportsmanship, evaluating the direct and moderating effects of external factors on this relationship. By doing so, it seeks to offer evidence‐based recommendations for curriculum and sports program enhancements that can better translate religious values into practical ethical behavior on the field (Ibrahim, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
1. To evaluate the impact of religious education on students’ ethical considerations in sportsmanship.
2. To identify the key religious principles that promote ethical behavior in sports.
3. To assess the influence of external factors on the relationship between religious education and sportsmanship ethics.
Research Questions:
1. How does religious education influence ethical considerations in sportsmanship among students in Jos South LGA?
2. What religious values are most effective in promoting ethical behavior in sports?
3. How do external factors affect the translation of religious ethics into sportsmanship practices?
Research Hypotheses:
1. H1: Religious education positively influences ethical considerations in sportsmanship.
2. H2: Students exposed to religious teachings demonstrate higher levels of sportsmanship ethics.
3. H3: External factors moderate the effect of religious education on sportsmanship ethics.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it explores the nexus between religious education and ethical sportsmanship, offering insights into how moral teachings can enhance sports behavior in primary schools within Jos South LGA. The research will benefit educators and sports coordinators by identifying effective religious principles and strategies for promoting fair play and integrity in sports. The findings are expected to inform policy and curriculum development aimed at fostering a culture of ethical conduct in competitive settings, ultimately contributing to a more respectful sports environment (Adebisi, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to examining the effects of religious education on ethical considerations in sportsmanship among primary school students in Jos South LGA, Plateau State. It does not extend to other regions or educational levels.
Definitions of Terms:
1. Religious Education: Instruction of religious beliefs and moral values in an academic setting.
2. Sportsmanship: Ethical and respectful behavior during sports and competitive activities.
3. Ethical Considerations: Moral principles guiding behavior and decision‐making in competitive environments.
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