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Mens sana in corpore sano: the effects of sport on children’s learning in Italy

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  • Mario Nosvelli

    (CNR - IRCRES
    Catholic University of the Sacred Heart)

Abstract

This study analyses the impact of sports participation on both cognitive and non-cognitive skills using micro data from Italian fifth grade pupils’ test scores. The performance of students is investigated by estimating different frequencies of sports practice. Using sports facilities as an instrument for sports participation, we find that its effect on school performance is positive, but only for an intermediate level of training. Sports drills have a negative effect, especially on females, when the extremes come into play: both inactivity and full-week action. On the contrary, daily sports practice seems to be effective on non-cognitive skills, revealing positive contributions to some personality traits that represent a major component of human capital.

Suggested Citation

  • Mario Nosvelli, 2023. "Mens sana in corpore sano: the effects of sport on children’s learning in Italy," Economia Politica: Journal of Analytical and Institutional Economics, Springer;Fondazione Edison, vol. 40(2), pages 703-729, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:epolit:v:40:y:2023:i:2:d:10.1007_s40888-022-00284-6
    DOI: 10.1007/s40888-022-00284-6
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Human capital; Sports participation; Cognitive and non-cognitive skills;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education

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