Perspectives on Physical Education and Sports Science in Singapore: An Eye on the Youth Olympics 2010
Nick Aplin (ed.)
Singapore: McGraw-Hill, 2009
ISBN: 9780071281645

2008 was a pivotal year for sport in Singapore. The nation secured the bid to host the inaugural Youth Olympic Games of 2010. Rapid progress was achieved at a competitive level when Singaporeans won a Paralympic gold medal and a team Olympic silver medal in Beijing. As an international sporting host, the successful staging of the first "night" F1 Grand Prix race helped to create a new facet to the nation's developing global image.

Perspectives on Physical Education and Sports Science in Singapore recognizes the concurrent need to apply new knowledge and develop a greater understanding of meaningful sport and physical education in order to sustain these initiatives in a growing population. In physical education, the solitary aim to make children fit has become outmoded. Contemporary needs in schools focus on health, creativity, the learning of skills and the management of technology to further broader objectives.

This book provides a wide range of perspectives. It examines current pedagogical practices in schools, evaluates attitudes towards health and fitness, explains the relevance of talent identification and it reflects on the development of the culture of sport in Singapore. The authors identify areas of concern and interest for educationalists and scientists and those with a close affinity to physical activity. Managing obesity, character development, playing games, coaching considerations, and sport as consumerism all find a place in this book.