Activity theory, complexity and sports coaching: an epistemology for a discipline. Issue 2 (17th February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jones, Robyn L.; Edwards, Christian; Viotto Filho, I. A. Tuim
• Is Part Of: Sport, education and society. Volume 21:Issue 2(2016)
• Page Start: 200
• Page End: 216
• Publication Date: 2016-02-17
• Subjects: Activity Theory -- Sports Coaching -- Leont'ev -- Interpretive -- Epistemology; Physical education and training -- Periodicals; School sports -- Periodicals; Sports -- Periodicals; 796.07
• DOI: 10.1080/13573322.2014.895713
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1357-3322

Abstract

Abstract : The aim of this article is twofold. First, it is to advance the case for activity theory (AT) as a credible and alternative lens to view and research sports coaching. Second, it is to position this assertion within the wider debate about the epistemology of coaching. Following a framing introduction, a more comprehensive review of the development and current conceptualisation of AT is given. Here, AT's evolution through three distinct phases and related theorists, namely Vygotsky, Leont'ev and Engeström, is initially traced. This gives way to a more detailed explanation of AT's principal conceptual components, including 'object', 'subject', 'tools' (mediating artefacts), 'rules', a 'community' and a 'division of labour'. An example is then presented from empirical work illustrating how AT can be used as a means to research sports coaching. The penultimate section locates such thinking within coaching's current 'epistemological debate, arguing that the coaching 'self' is not an autonomous individual, but a relative part of social and cultural arrangements. Finally, a conclusion summarises the main points made, particularly in terms in presenting the grounding constructivist epistemology of AT as a potential way forward for sports coaching.