The Role of Physical Education Teachers in Identifying and Guiding Talented Students in School Sports Programs

Talent identification and development represent fundamental components of modern educational and sports systems.Within the school environment, physical education teachers play a crucial role in detecting, selecting, and guiding students who demonstrate athletic potential.This study aims to examine the role of physical education and sports teachers in the process of identifying and directing talented students toward appropriate school sports activities.Additionally, the study explores the impact of school sports competitions and the professional experience of teachers on the effectiveness of talent identification and guidance.The research employed a descriptive-analytical approach appropriate to the nature of the research problem.The study population consisted of middle schools located in the province of Ain Defla, Algeria.A simple random sample of 24 physical education teachers representing 24 middle schools was selected.Data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to the participating teachers.The collected data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software, employing descriptive statistics and percentage analysis to interpret the responses.The findings revealed a strong positive relationship between the role of the physical education teacher and the processes of talent selection and sports orientation within school sports programs.The results also indicated that teachers' professional experience significantly enhances their ability to identify and guide talented students effectively.Furthermore, the organization of school sports competitions by physical education teachers in collaboration with the Provincial League for School Sports plays an important role in discovering and nurturing athletic talent within schools.The study concludes that physical education teachers represent a key element in the early detection and development of athletic talent in educational institutions.Strengthening teachers' professional competencies, improving the organization of school competitions, and implementing more systematic talent identification strategies can significantly contribute to enhancing school sports programs and developing future elite athletes.