A Factor Analysis Influencing the Development of School Sport Based on The DEMATEL Technique

This research aimed to analyze the factors influencing the development of student sports. The research method employed was a mixed-method approach (qualitative and quantitative). The participants in this study included all experts with scientific and practical expertise in student sports, with sampling continuing until theoretical saturation was achieved (17 interviews). In the quantitative section, the relationships among the identified variables were examined using the Dematel technique, based on the opinions of experts and specialists. Initially, a list of factors affecting the development of student sports was compiled by utilizing library resources and conducting qualitative interviews, along with the distribution of semi-open questionnaires. The identified factors were then classified using a systemic approach into two categories: input and process. The designed questionnaire included nine elements: structure and policy-making, human resources, financial resources, sports facilities and equipment, partnerships and support, talent identification, competitions and sports programs, technology development, and scientific advancement. Using the Dematel technique, the internal relationships and interactions between the model variables were determined, leading to the identification of significant and influential factors. The results indicated that the factors of structure and policy-making, financial resources, partnerships and support, talent identification, and competitions and sports programs exhibited the greatest interactions with the other studied factors; thus, their importance in the system is heightened. This model identifies and delineates the pathway for managers to develop student sports in Iran and provides a method for strategic decision-making while highlighting areas for improvement.