Evaluating co-curricular activities as integral component of the human life: Curriculum implications for the Nigerian context

Abstract

Co-curricular activities, also popularly known and called extr-curricular activities by renowned educationists like Bucher and Association (1974), Vannier and Fait (1975) named "Extra-Class Activities" may be regarded as those school activities that take place outside the official designated class-room hours or periods. Traditionally, the periods exclusively and officially designated schooling hours during which activities under reference take place are very early in the mornings prior to the commencement of classes at 8.00a.m as well as in the evenings shortly after afternoon studies at 5.00p.m respectively. Notably co-curricular or extra-class activities complement the courses of study normally scheduled within the overall school curriculum. This paper as it were intended to appraise Sports in the wider ramifications as integral component of the school curriculum that should be organized and implemented in a way that will approximate and extend the welfare of the average Nigerian society at large. The paper made an overview of types and/elements of sports as well as their relevance in the school curriculum paradigm. Recommendations included among others that the school curriculum should be reviewed regularly to justify the continued existence of some sporting activities with passage of time. Government at all levels, private initiatives and religious organizations having stake in the education enterprise as well as the well being of the youth and children should collaborate in developing school sports.