Sport Values in Every Classroom

Background Most existing doping prevention programs are not evidence-based. When doping prevention programs are prepared, practitioners rarely consult researchers, and the other way around. Researchers rarely consider the needs of practitioners, and thus how to implement the results of their work effectively in practice. Effective prevention programs (and research) require collaboration between practitioners and academics, and the I Value project sets an example of bridging the gap between both groups. Objectives Main objectives of I Value project included a scoping review of literature that maps current values based education in a school based setting and identifies gaps in current doping prevention knowledge, co-development, implementation and scientific evaluation of early primary doping prevention program, targeting schoolchildren (6 to 14 years) and increase school teachers’ capability, opportunity, and motivation to adopt and implement values-based education program. Implementation The project was divided into seven, mostly parallel, work packages (WP), delivered over three years. WP included gathering and reviewing of existing prevention materials and research for selected target group (children aged 6 to 14 and parents) to provide the basis and support for the development of early primary doping prevention program. The program was piloted and based on the findings adapted/changed. Program is now being implemented in schools in 5 European countries. Achievements The main output of the I Value project is I Value Toolkit – an early doping prevention program (targeting schoolchildren aged 6 to 14), that is evidence-based with emphasis on values and also meets the diverse socio-political and environmental needs of the member countries. It was co-developed by experienced educators from five national anti-doping organisations, experienced academics from two leading universities in the field of doping prevention and schoolteachers from five European countries.