THE SPORTS TEAM AS A LEARNING ORGANIZATION
Published date: 11/08/2008
The purpose of this study is to identify and analyze the characteristics of a sports team, according to the theory of learning organizations, based on the ideas of Peter Senge and his learning processes. To achieve the proposed objectives, it adopts a predominantly qualitative research method, taking the form of a descriptive and exploratory case study. The data was collected by means of semistructured interviews, and analyzed based on the technique of categorical thematic content analysis. This information was structured according to seven categories, based on the analysis indicators, which relate to the objectives of the study. The procedures reveal that one of the principal characteristics of the sports team is the valorization of the individual and his or her physical and psychological well-being. Individual learning occurs through the effort and means used by each individual, led by the trainer and assisted by the team colleagues. The team as an organization is seen in the way of thinking, sharing knowledge, the perception of the need to improve, constant training and the use of technology to assist its performance.