Designing a Model for the Development of Sport for All Through Modern Technologies in Iraq
Abstract
The present study aimed to design a model for the development of sport for all through modern technologies in Iraq. This study sought to identify the influencing factors, executive strategies, and consequences of using modern technologies to expand public participation in sport. This study was applied in terms of purpose and qualitative in terms of data nature. It was conducted using a grounded theory approach based on the Strauss and Corbin model. The research population included sport management experts, university professors with managerial or executive experience, senior managers of sport and youth departments, and managers of sports federations. Purposeful sampling was used and continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 experts. Open, axial, and selective coding were used to analyze the data, and the criteria of credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability were applied to evaluate data quality. The findings showed that the causal factors of the model included lifestyle, target population, and the need of sport for all for modern technologies. The contextual factors were identified in four areas: infrastructural, managerial, cultural, and geographical. Economic, political, and socio-cultural factors were also identified as intervening factors. The strategies of the model included educational, managerial, cultural, research-based, and financial strategies. The consequences of the model were also classified into five dimensions: sport development, knowledge development, economic development, health development, and international development. The results showed that modern technologies can provide the basis for the sustainable development of sport for all in Iraq by increasing awareness, facilitating access to sports services, improving information management, and strengthening public participation. Therefore, strengthening technological infrastructures, educating managers and citizens, financially supporting companies active in sport technology, and coordinating sports, educational, and media institutions are necessary in Iraq’s sport-for-all policymaking.
Abstract
The present study aimed to design a model for the development of sport for all through modern technologies in Iraq. This study sought to identify the influencing factors, executive strategies, and consequences of using modern technologies to expand public participation in sport. This study was applied in terms of purpose and qualitative in terms of data nature. It was conducted using a grounded theory approach based on the Strauss and Corbin model. The research population included sport management experts, university professors with managerial or executive experience, senior managers of sport and youth departments, and managers of sports federations. Purposeful sampling was used and continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 experts. Open, axial, and selective coding were used to analyze the data, and the criteria of credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability were applied to evaluate data quality. The findings showed that the causal factors of the model included lifestyle, target population, and the need of sport for all for modern technologies. The contextual factors were identified in four areas: infrastructural, managerial, cultural, and geographical. Economic, political, and socio-cultural factors were also identified as intervening factors. The strategies of the model included educational, managerial, cultural, research-based, and financial strategies. The consequences of the model were also classified into five dimensions: sport development, knowledge development, economic development, health development, and international development. The results showed that modern technologies can provide the basis for the sustainable development of sport for all in Iraq by increasing awareness, facilitating access to sports services, improving information management, and strengthening public participation. Therefore, strengthening technological infrastructures, educating managers and citizens, financially supporting companies active in sport technology, and coordinating sports, educational, and media institutions are necessary in Iraq’s sport-for-all policymaking.
Keywords: Sport for all; modern technologies; Iraq; grounded theory; sport development.
Introduction
Societies around the world are experiencing an unprecedented technological transformation. The rapid diffusion of technology across virtually every aspect of human life has fundamentally reshaped the way people live, work, communicate, and interact (Rajeshp & Pfister, 2020). In pursuit of greater well-being, security, and quality of life, individuals increasingly rely on a wide range of technologies. Consequently, technological advancement has exerted profound and lasting influences on diverse domains, including culture, the environment, employment, and the economy, with these effects continuing to expand (Patel et al., 2020). Many scholars attribute the rapid pace of contemporary global change to increased access to technology, intensified competition in technological innovation, the globalization of markets, and the growing intensity of international economic competition (Yuldashev, 2021).
The sport industry, as one of the most dynamic sectors influenced by global transformation, has likewise been profoundly affected by technological progress. In recent years, the integration of emerging technologies into sport has accelerated considerably, playing an increasingly important role in reshaping the structure, management, and operation of the industry (Glebova et al., 2023). To remain competitive and sustainable within an increasingly interconnected global environment, sport organizations must embrace technological innovation as an essential component of organizational development and strategic adaptation to emerging challenges (Shilbury et al., 2016).
Despite these developments, much of the literature on technological advancement has traditionally emphasized its adverse effects on physical activity. A prevailing assumption is that technological progress inevitably contributes to sedentary lifestyles and declining levels of physical activity, a perspective supported by several previous studies (Fakhrzadeh et al., 2016; Mohebi et al., 2019). Existing evidence indicates that technological change has produced both positive and negative consequences for physical activity. While increased reliance on digital technologies has been associated with higher levels of sedentary behavior—particularly among younger populations—it has also created new opportunities for promoting active lifestyles (Rodríguez-Castillo et al., 2021). When strategically implemented, modern technologies can serve as powerful tools for expanding participation in sport, especially in the context of Sport for All initiatives, which play a pivotal role in improving public health and enhancing societal well-being (Junaidulović & Stamović, 2021).
Sport for All, often used interchangeably with concepts such as sport for everyone or community physical activity, refers to regular physical activities undertaken by individuals or organized groups with the primary objectives of improving physical and psychological health, fostering social interaction, promoting enjoyment, and enhancing overall quality of life (Matolič et al., 2023). Beyond its health-related benefits, Sport for All contributes substantially to social vitality, meaningful leisure participation, and psychological well-being. Moreover, it has become an important component of participatory urban governance by encouraging community engagement and strengthening social cohesion (Fozounkhah et al., 2021).
Integrating physical activity—particularly Sport for All—into daily life has been associated with numerous individual and societal benefits, including reduced social problems, greater emotional stability, and improved physical and mental health. Growing public awareness of the health benefits of regular physical activity has significantly increased individuals' willingness to participate in sport and exercise (Aju et al., 2021). Consequently, fostering a culture that encourages even short periods of daily physical activity can improve not only individual health outcomes but also social well-being while contributing to the prevention of various social challenges (Moshtaghi et al., 2021).
Modern technologies represent one of the defining characteristics of contemporary society and encompass a wide range of applications, including advanced sporting equipment, internet-based platforms, social media, mobile applications, digital software, and mass media such as television and radio (Lubysheva & Pashchenko, 2022). These technologies offer numerous opportunities to facilitate the promotion and development of Sport for All. Wearable health-monitoring devices capable of collecting and reporting physiological data have become increasingly common in recreational sport and physical activity. Examples include pedometers, fitness applications, digital exercise platforms, smartwatches, and heart rate monitoring devices designed to support health management during physical activity (Gil Espinoza et al., 2022). Furthermore, social media platforms have emerged as effective channels for promoting physical activity and encouraging healthy lifestyles (Kashkar & Mohammadi, 2022), while sports medicine technologies enable continuous monitoring of health indicators and facilitate evidence-based exercise prescription (Forberger et al., 2017). Collectively, these technological innovations illustrate the substantial potential of modern technologies to enhance participation in Sport for All and support broader public health objectives.
A growing body of research has examined the role of modern technologies in sport from diverse perspectives across different countries. Woods et al. (2023), for example, emphasized the transformative role of technology in shaping athletes' lifestyles and daily practices. Similarly, Ramón and Rojas Torrijos (2022) identified cultural factors as key determinants influencing the adoption and effective use of emerging technologies in sport. In contrast, Chadwick (2022) argued that economic considerations constitute one of the primary drivers of technological integration into the sport industry, particularly within the context of Sport for All. Furthermore, Mamo et al. (2022) demonstrated that modern technologies, when incorporated into managerial and organizational reforms, can substantially enhance the development and delivery of community sport programs.
From a broader societal perspective, Gramaioli et al. (2022) concluded that expanding Sport for All initiatives can contribute not only to socioeconomic development but also to strengthening international cooperation and sports diplomacy among nations. Likewise, Ferrell et al. (2022) predicted that by 2030 technological innovation would profoundly reshape the sport ecosystem, influencing its three principal stakeholder groups—athletes, consumers, and sport managers.
Evidence from Iran similarly suggests that modern technologies are emerging as key drivers of cultural and social development while offering considerable potential for advancing Sport for All. Gholami Torkeshlouyeh et al. (2023) highlighted the transformative capacity of technology to address current and future communication needs within community sport. Likewise, Torabi and Mohammadi (2023) identified technological advancement as one of the major organizational factors influencing the public culture of Sport for All. In a similar vein, Amini Komijani et al. (2022) argued that technology should occupy a far more prominent position within the long-term strategic vision of the country's sport system.
Further evidence has demonstrated the practical benefits of technological innovation for sport service delivery. Farahani and Seyed Javadin (2022) reported a significant positive relationship between technology adoption and the performance of sport service providers. In addition, Lotfi et al. (2022) and Babazadeh et al. (2021) identified citizens' quality of life as an important determinant of Sport for All development. From a policy perspective, Fesanghari et al. (2022) proposed several strategies for enhancing the application of modern technologies in recreational sport, including technology co-creation, facilitating technology adoption, designing sport technology ecosystems, fostering innovation, implementing pilot technology projects, technology marketing, exploiting neighborhood effects, expanding public accessibility, commercializing community sport, and stimulating demand for technology-based sport services. Earlier, Gholami et al. (2017) demonstrated that technological factors exert the strongest influence on the establishment and growth of small and medium-sized enterprises within the sport industry, emphasizing that such development depends on the availability of appropriate technological infrastructure and equipment. Similarly, Irajpour et al. (2016) highlighted the important role of digital media in promoting Sport for All through information dissemination, public education, and continuous awareness campaigns aimed at strengthening community participation and social collaboration.
Despite the growing body of literature, the present study extends beyond the conventional argument that modern technologies simply increase participation in physical activity and sport. Rather, it seeks to provide a systematic understanding of the nature of emerging technologies, their underlying mechanisms, and their practical capacity to facilitate the sustainable development of Sport for All. A review of previous studies indicates that domestic research has generally treated technology as a static phenomenon, paying relatively little attention to its rapid evolution, increasing complexity, and emerging dimensions. Meanwhile, advances in digital technologies have accelerated considerably, creating a need for a comprehensive framework capable of identifying their various dimensions and evaluating their respective contributions to promoting physical activity and expanding community sport participation. Addressing this gap constitutes the central motivation of the present study. Accordingly, this research proposes a context-specific strategic model for promoting Sport for All through modern technologies, with particular emphasis on the socioeconomic, institutional, and cultural conditions of Iraq. This context-sensitive perspective represents the principal contribution of the present study and distinguishes it from previous research in the field.
Methodology
This study was conducted as applied research and employed a qualitative research design using the grounded theory approach developed by Strauss and Corbin (1998). This methodological approach was selected because of the exploratory nature of the study and its suitability for systematically identifying and explaining the dimensions, components, and interrelationships between modern technologies and the development of Sport for All within the specific socioeconomic and institutional context of Iraq.
Participants and Sampling
The study population consisted of experts in sport management. For the purposes of this research, experts included university faculty members specializing in sport management who had managerial or executive experience within the Ministry of Youth and Sports, national sport federations, or provincial directorates of youth and sports. The participant pool also included senior administrators from provincial sport organizations and national sport federations, including presidents, vice presidents, and secretaries-general.
Participants were selected through purposive sampling, beginning with two key informants who met the inclusion criteria. Sampling continued using the principle of theoretical sampling, whereby participants were recruited based on their potential contribution to theory development. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Saturation occurred after interviews with 15 experts, at which point no substantially new concepts or categories emerged, and the sampling process was concluded.
Participant Characteristics
The final sample comprised 15 experts in sport management and administration. Participants ranged in age from 36 to 60 years and included both male and female professionals. Most participants held doctoral degrees in Physical Education or Sport Sciences, while a smaller number possessed master's degrees in the same field. Their professional backgrounds included university professors, senior administrators, and employees within governmental sport organizations. Professional experience ranged from 6 to 25 years, ensuring that participants possessed extensive academic, managerial, and practical expertise relevant to the development of Sport for All through modern technologies.
Data Collection
Data were collected through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews, allowing participants to provide detailed insights while enabling the researchers to explore emerging issues through follow-up questions. The interview guide was developed based on the research objectives and an extensive review of the literature concerning Sport for All and emerging technologies.
To enhance the trustworthiness of the qualitative findings, the study adopted Lincoln and Guba's (1985) four criteria for establishing rigor: credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Credibility was strengthened through prolonged engagement with participants and continuous comparison of emerging concepts. Transferability was supported by providing detailed descriptions of the research context and participant characteristics. Dependability was ensured through systematic documentation of the analytical process, while confirmability was enhanced by maintaining an audit trail and continuously comparing interpretations with the original interview data.
Data Analysis
Data analysis was conducted in two sequential stages following the Strauss and Corbin grounded theory coding procedure, which comprises open coding, axial coding, and selective coding.
In the first stage, findings from previous studies on Sport for All and modern technologies were systematically reviewed and analyzed using the three-stage coding process. This analysis facilitated the identification of preliminary concepts and categories that informed the subsequent interview phase.
In the second stage, the interview transcripts were independently analyzed using the same coding framework. During open coding, meaningful concepts were extracted from the interview data. These concepts were subsequently organized into broader categories through axial coding, which identified relationships among categories and subcategories. Finally, selective coding was employed to integrate the major categories into a coherent conceptual framework explaining the role of modern technologies in the development of Sport for All.
The findings from the literature review and expert interviews were subsequently integrated through a comparative analytical process. The resulting concepts and categories formed the basis for developing the final strategic framework for promoting Sport for All through modern technologies in Iraq. This integrative approach enabled the proposed framework to be grounded both in existing scientific knowledge and in the practical experiences of experts familiar with the Iraqi sport system.
Results
This section begins by presenting the demographic characteristics of the interview participants (Table 1). The information includes participants' age, gender, educational qualifications, academic discipline, professional position, organizational role, and years of work experience. These data provide an overview of the expert panel involved in the study and demonstrate the diversity of professional backgrounds and perspectives represented during the qualitative data collection and analysis process.
Consistent with the objectives of the study and the Strauss and Corbin grounded theory approach, the findings are presented according to the outcomes of the three-stage coding process, including open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. The identified concepts and categories were subsequently organized into the core components of the proposed conceptual framework.
No. | Education | Field | Age | Gender | Position | Experience (years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | PhD | Physical Education | 60 | Male | University professor | 9 |
2 | PhD | Physical Education | 52 | Male | University professor | 6 |
3 | MSc | Physical Education | 45 | Male | Employee | 10 |
4 | MSc | Physical Education | 43 | Female | Employee | 15 |
5 | MSc | Physical Education | 48 | Female | Employee | 25 |
6 | PhD | Physical Education | 36 | Male | University professor | 7 |
7 | PhD | Physical Education | 39 | Female | Employee | 11 |
8 | PhD | Physical Education | 51 | Female | University professor | 12 |
9 | MSc | Physical Education | 44 | Female | Employee | 9 |
10 | PhD | Physical Education | 47 | Male | University professor | 14 |
11 | PhD | Physical Education | 39 | Male | University professor | 18 |
12 | PhD | Physical Education | 53 | Female | University professor | 11 |
13 | PhD | Physical Education | 36 | Female | University professor | 13 |
14 | PhD | Physical Education | 40 | Female | University professor | 12 |
15 | PhD | Physical Education | 43 | Male | University professor | 8 |
Causal Conditions
Within the grounded theory paradigm, causal conditions refer to the factors that give rise to, influence, or explain the emergence of the central phenomenon under investigation. In the present study, the causal conditions comprise lifestyle changes, the characteristics and needs of target populations, and the growing demand for integrating modern technologies into Sport for All initiatives. These categories represent the fundamental drivers that justify and shape the adoption of technology as a strategic instrument for expanding community sport participation in Iraq.
The causal conditions, together with their corresponding concepts and initial codes extracted from the interviews, are presented in Table 2. Collectively, these findings illustrate the underlying motivations and contextual factors that support the development of Sport for All through the effective integration of modern technologies within the Iraqi context.
Open Codes | Concept | Category |
|---|---|---|
Low level of physical activity participation | Unhealthy lifestyle and the need for change | Lifestyle |
Prevalence of sedentary lifestyles | Unhealthy lifestyle and the need for change | |
The impact of mechanization on physical activity | Unhealthy lifestyle and the need for change | |
The need to improve lifestyle behaviors | Unhealthy lifestyle and the need for change | |
Technology as a facilitator of physical activity | Unhealthy lifestyle and the need for change | |
The necessity of technology in Sport for All | Broad participation and responsiveness | Target Population |
The broad target audience of Sport for All | Broad participation and responsiveness | |
Limitations of traditional approaches | Broad participation and responsiveness | |
The need for health-oriented planning | Community health promotion | |
The influence of technology on social engagement | Community dynamism | |
Population ageing and the need for sport development | Community health promotion | |
Changing needs of a technology-driven society | Community dynamism | |
Changing preferences among younger generations | Community dynamism | |
Technology as a tool for engaging participants | Broad participation and responsiveness | |
Technology as a bridge between sport organizations | Communication needs | The Need for Modern Technologies in Sport for All |
The necessity of ensuring safety in sport facilities | Safety and security needs | |
Identifying safety deficiencies in sport facilities | Safety and security needs | |
Limited public awareness of sport and physical activity | Information needs | |
Technology as a tool for enhancing public knowledge | Information needs | |
The potential of technology for knowledge management | Information needs |
Contextual Conditions
Contextual conditions refer to the specific environmental and organizational circumstances within which the central phenomenon occurs and through which interactions, decision-making processes, and strategic responses are shaped. Within the grounded theory paradigm, these conditions provide the context that facilitates or constrains the implementation of strategies related to the phenomenon under investigation.
In the present study, the contextual conditions influencing the development of Sport for All through modern technologies in Iraq were categorized into four major dimensions: infrastructure, managerial, cultural, and geographical conditions. Together, these dimensions establish the environmental context within which technological innovations can either facilitate or hinder the promotion and expansion of Sport for All. The concepts and open codes extracted from the interviews are presented in Table 3.
Open Codes | Concepts | Category |
|---|---|---|
Insufficient public sport facilities dedicated to Sport for All | Sport facilities and equipment | Infrastructure |
Inadequate basic equipment in public sport facilities | Sport facilities and equipment | |
Lack of safe and secure sport environments for women and children | Sport facilities and equipment | |
Limited availability of free and publicly accessible sport facilities | Sport facilities and equipment | |
Weak technological infrastructure supporting community sport | Technological infrastructure | |
Inefficient organizational structure of the Iraqi Sport for All system | Legal and organizational structure | Managerial Conditions |
Dominance of elite sport over Sport for All policies | Organizational structure | |
Overlapping responsibilities among Sport for All governing bodies | Organizational structure | |
Restrictive laws and regulations limiting Sport for All development | Legal framework | |
Strategic role of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in national policy-making | Legal framework | |
Positive public attitudes toward modern sport technologies | Social acceptance | Cultural Conditions |
Cultural influences on the adoption of sport technologies | Cultural diversity | |
High acceptance of technologies compatible with local culture | Social acceptance | |
Cultural diversity facilitating the adoption of innovative technologies | Cultural diversity | |
Society's potential to embrace various technological innovations | Social acceptance | |
Land, air, and maritime accessibility to imported technologies | Accessibility | Geographical Conditions |
Strategic geographical location facilitating technology transfer | Accessibility | |
Simultaneous access to technologically advanced Eastern and Western countries | Accessibility | |
Diverse climatic conditions supporting different sport technologies | Climatic diversity | |
Applicability of technologies under varying environmental conditions | Climatic diversity | |
Year-round access to diverse climatic environments | Climatic diversity |
Intervening Conditions
Within the grounded theory framework, intervening conditions are broader structural or environmental factors that influence how causal conditions affect the central phenomenon and determine the effectiveness of strategic actions. These factors may either facilitate or constrain the successful implementation of technology-driven Sport for All initiatives.
The findings indicate that the intervening conditions influencing the development of Sport for All through modern technologies in Iraq can be classified into three principal categories: economic, political, and socio-cultural conditions. These factors play a decisive role in determining the extent to which modern technologies can be adopted, disseminated, and integrated into community sport development. The concepts and corresponding open codes are presented in Table 4.
Open Codes | Concepts | Category |
|---|---|---|
High cost of sport technology equipment | High implementation costs | Economic Conditions |
High costs associated with acquiring modern sport technologies | High implementation costs | |
Exchange-rate fluctuations increasing equipment costs | Economic constraints | |
Weak overall economic conditions | Economic constraints | |
Economic sanctions limiting access to technologies | Economic constraints | |
Large proportion of the population within low-income groups | Economic constraints | |
High inflation reducing purchasing power | Economic constraints | |
Political barriers to importing modern technologies | Domestic and international politics | Political Conditions |
Weak political relations with technologically advanced countries | Domestic and international politics | |
Influence of political leaders on public attitudes toward technology | Domestic and international politics | |
Political interference by non-specialists in Sport for All | Domestic and international politics | |
Political influence on media narratives regarding technology | Domestic and international politics | |
Influence of celebrities on public attitudes toward technology | Domestic and international politics | |
Role of media in promoting sport technologies | Media | Socio-Cultural Conditions |
Media as a platform for educating the public about sport technologies | Media | |
Media as an essential component of digital sport ecosystems | Media | |
Consideration of religious beliefs in technology adoption | Religious and cultural beliefs | |
Influence of social culture on technology selection and acceptance | Religious and cultural beliefs |
Strategies
Within the grounded theory framework, strategies refer to the purposeful actions, decisions, and interactions adopted by stakeholders in response to the identified causal, contextual, and intervening conditions. These strategic actions are intended to facilitate the effective implementation of modern technologies and ultimately promote the development of Sport for All.
The findings revealed five major categories of strategies: educational strategies, managerial strategies, cultural strategies, research strategies, and financial strategies. Together, these strategies constitute the operational foundation for developing technology-driven Sport for All programs in Iraq. The corresponding concepts and open codes are presented in Table 5.
Open Codes | Concepts | Category |
|---|---|---|
Increasing public awareness of health-oriented sport technologies | Education for practitioners | Educational Strategies |
Deploying qualified coaches and consultants in public sport facilities | Education for practitioners | |
Public education on the use of modern sport technologies | Education for society | |
Disseminating technological knowledge among users | Education for society | |
Establishing specialized online educational platforms | Education for society | |
Educating policymakers in sport technology | Education for practitioners | |
Establishing university programs in sport technology development | Education for practitioners | |
Training coaches in the application of emerging sport technologies | Education for practitioners | |
Developing supportive legislation for sport technology | Structural development | Managerial Strategies |
Establishing a Sport for All technology ecosystem | Structural development | |
Creating specialized sport technology departments | Structural development | |
Implementing governance monitoring and evaluation systems | Structural development | |
Establishing a sport technology standardization authority | Structural development | |
Forming specialized committees for Sport for All development | Interactive governance | |
Developing an independent cross-sector monitoring system | Interactive governance | |
Strengthening coordination among Sport for All organizations | Interactive governance | |
Promoting collaboration between sport and technology organizations | Interactive governance | |
Encouraging inter-ministerial cooperation | Interactive governance | |
Increasing municipal participation in public sport facilities | Interactive governance | |
Promoting organizational dialogue among relevant institutions | Interactive governance | |
Utilizing social networking platforms to strengthen stakeholder connections | Interactive governance | |
Learning from successful and unsuccessful international experiences | Capacity building | |
Strengthening commitment among national sport and cultural authorities | Capacity building | |
Enhancing the role of national media and supreme councils | Capacity building | |
Engaging technology specialists in Sport for All programs | Professionalization | |
Designing comprehensive sport technology software | Professionalization | |
Translating research findings into practical implementation | Professionalization | |
Maximizing the utilization of existing digital platforms | Capacity building | |
Promoting physical activity monitoring applications | Professionalization | |
Utilizing domestic technological capabilities | Capacity building | |
Adapting sport technologies to provincial climatic conditions | Localization | |
Utilizing diverse virtual communication platforms | Localization | |
Addressing the needs of different age groups | Localization | |
Considering regional psychological and cultural differences | Localization | |
Facilitating family participation in Sport for All | Family-centered approach | |
Creating family accounts within digital platforms | Family-centered approach | |
Developing technology-based group competitions | Family-centered approach | |
Expanding opportunities for physical activity in high-traffic public areas | Program planning | |
Increasing policymakers' attention to sport technology | Policy reform | |
Reducing restrictions on internet accessibility | Policy reform | |
Strengthening managerial support for sport technology | Policy reform | |
Adopting a comprehensive yet detailed policy perspective | Policy reform | |
Balancing hardware and software development | Policy reform | |
Promoting realistic expectations regarding technology | Policy reform | |
Conducting pilot implementation before large-scale deployment | Program planning | |
Promoting physical activity in recreational centers | Program planning | |
Reengineering technology-based Sport for All services | Program planning | |
Designing digital platforms connecting people with sport opportunities | Program planning | |
Improving public access to sport technologies | Program planning | |
Establishing short-term and long-term strategic objectives | Program planning | |
Organizing sport and technology festivals | Program planning | |
Establishing a National Sport Technology Day | Program planning | |
Designing physical activity programs for sport fans | Program planning | |
Assessing current and desired conditions of technology-driven sport | Program planning | |
Establishing specialized sport technology accelerators | Technology accelerators | |
Using accelerators to strengthen social interaction | Technology accelerators | |
Integrating society, technology, sport, and the marketplace | Technology accelerators | |
Utilizing media to promote sport technologies | Acceptance of Sport for All | Cultural Strategies |
Employing technology as a catalyst for physical activity | Acceptance of Sport for All | |
Stimulating public demand for sport technologies | Technology acceptance | |
Promoting sport applications through media channels | Technology acceptance | |
Improving public attitudes toward physical activity | Acceptance of Sport for All | |
Promoting a positive culture of technology-driven Sport for All | Acceptance of Sport for All | |
Assessing community needs for Sport for All | Needs assessment | Research Strategies |
Identifying citizens' sport and technology preferences | Needs assessment | |
Assessing community demand for emerging sport technologies | Needs assessment | |
Utilizing high-quality research in policymaking | Research development | |
Integrating research on technology and Sport for All | Research development | |
Examining internet usage patterns among citizens | Research development | |
Conducting foresight studies on sport technology | Research development | |
Supporting investors in sport technologies | Private-sector support | Financial Strategies |
Supporting sport technology-based companies | Private-sector support | |
Aligning Sport for All budgets with participation demand | Financial support | |
Government financial support for technology investors | Financial support | |
Introducing sport organizations to financial institutions | Financial support |
Consequences
Within the grounded theory framework, consequences represent the ultimate outcomes that emerge from the interactions and processes identified throughout the theoretical model. They reflect the broader impacts of the strategies adopted in response to the causal, contextual, and intervening conditions.
In the present study, the consequences of integrating modern technologies into the development of Sport for All in Iraq were classified into five overarching dimensions: sport development, knowledge development, economic development, health development, and international development. These dimensions encompass the principal outcomes expected from the effective implementation of technology-driven Sport for All initiatives and illustrate the multidimensional contribution of modern technologies to sustainable sport development.
The categories, together with their associated concepts and open codes, are presented in Table 6. Finally, based on the findings obtained through the grounded theory analysis and the integration of the identified categories and concepts, the final conceptual model for the development of Sport for All through modern technologies in Iraq was developed and is presented in Figure 1.
Open Codes | Concepts | Category |
|---|---|---|
Improving public attitudes toward Sport for All | Attitude change | Sport Development |
Increasing the attractiveness of Sport for All through modern technologies | Attitude change | Sport Development |
Improving managers' perceptions of Sport for All | Attitude change | Sport Development |
Increasing motivation for physical activity | Expansion of physical activity | Sport Development |
Increasing public participation in Sport for All | Expansion of physical activity | Sport Development |
Diversifying patterns of sport participation | Expansion of physical activity | Sport Development |
Facilitating participation in community sport activities | Expansion of physical activity | Sport Development |
Promoting widespread physical activity across society | Expansion of physical activity | Sport Development |
Improving identification of sport facilities through technology | Development of sport facilities | Sport Development |
Facilitating access and transportation to sport facilities | Development of sport facilities | Sport Development |
Expanding the quantity and quality of public sport facilities | Development of sport facilities | Sport Development |
Improving equipment and infrastructure in Sport for All facilities | Development of sport facilities | Sport Development |
Enhancing technology-related sport skills | Community knowledge | Knowledge Development |
Increasing technology-based health literacy | Community knowledge | Knowledge Development |
Improving community sport information systems | Community knowledge | Knowledge Development |
Enhancing coaches' professional learning | Community knowledge | Knowledge Development |
Collecting physiological data for individualized exercise planning | Managerial knowledge | Knowledge Development |
Strengthening evidence-based policymaking for sport managers | Managerial knowledge | Knowledge Development |
Real-time monitoring and evaluation of development programs | Managerial knowledge | Knowledge Development |
Improving information management and financial decision support | Managerial knowledge | Knowledge Development |
Creating new technology-driven jobs in Sport for All | Employment generation | Economic Development |
Expanding companies producing sport technologies | Employment generation | Economic Development |
Supporting the growth of sport technology startups | Employment generation | Economic Development |
Expanding technology-based sport service companies | Employment generation | Economic Development |
Strengthening the financial foundations of sport enterprises | Financial development | Economic Development |
Improving household economic conditions | Financial development | Economic Development |
Strengthening the national economy | Financial development | Economic Development |
Increasing investment in Sport for All | Financial development | Economic Development |
Improving community health | Health improvement | Health Development |
Improving physical health | Health improvement | Health Development |
Improving mental health | Health improvement | Health Development |
Building a healthier society with lower disease prevalence | Health improvement | Health Development |
Reducing household healthcare expenditures | Cost reduction | Health Development |
Reducing social costs associated with crime and social problems | Cost reduction | Health Development |
Expanding international technology-based sport activities | Internationalization of Sport for All | International Development |
Promoting indigenous community sports globally | Internationalization of Sport for All | International Development |
Learning from international Sport for All models | Internationalization of Sport for All | International Development |
Eliminating geographical barriers to sport knowledge transfer | International technology adoption | International Development |
Facilitating the adoption of global sport technologies | International technology adoption | International Development |
Expanding the use of advanced technologies within the national sport community | International technology adoption | International Development |
Integrating modern technologies into everyday life | International technology adoption | International Development |
Discussion and Conclusion
The present study aimed to design a model for the development of Sport for All through modern technologies in Iraq. The findings showed that the causal conditions influencing the role of modern technologies in the development of Sport for All include lifestyle, target population, and the need of Sport for All for modern technologies. These findings are consistent with the results reported by Woods et al. (2023), Gholami Torkeshlouyeh et al. (2023), Amini Komijani et al. (2022), Lotfi et al. (2022), and Babazadeh and Najafzadeh (2021).
Woods et al. (2023) emphasized the decisive role of technologies in transforming athletes’ lifestyles. Gholami Torkeshlouyeh et al. (2023) also referred to the current and potential future transformations created by technology in Sport for All, particularly in responding to communication needs. Similarly, Amini Komijani et al. (2022) highlighted the necessity of incorporating modern technologies into the strategic outlook of national sport development. Lotfi et al. (2022) and Babazadeh and Najafzadeh (2021) also identified quality of life as one of the causal factors affecting the development of Sport for All.
These findings may be explained by the low level of physical activity participation, the prevalence of sedentary lifestyles, and the growing dependence on technologies that reduce movement. Together, these factors highlight the need to reconsider behavioral patterns within society. Such change can be achieved only through the systematic development of Sport for All and the purposeful use of modern technologies at the community level. Given the dynamic nature of contemporary society and the diverse needs of different social groups, the use of modern technological tools in Sport for All should be regarded as a fundamental and unavoidable necessity, since traditional approaches alone are no longer sufficient to respond to these needs.
The findings also indicated that the contextual conditions affecting the role of modern technologies in the development of Sport for All in Iraq include infrastructural, managerial, cultural, and geographical factors. These results are consistent with the findings of Ramón and Rojas Torrijos (2022), Torabi and Mohammadi (2023), Fozounkhah et al. (2021), Moshtaghi et al. (2021), and Gholami et al. (2017).
Ramón and Rojas Torrijos (2022) identified cultural factors as key components in the acceptance and application of modern sport technologies. Torabi and Mohammadi (2023) introduced technology as one of the organizational factors influencing the public culture of Sport for All. Fozounkhah et al. (2021) also emphasized the role of structural, infrastructural, communication, cultural, and managerial factors in the development of Sport for All. Likewise, Moshtaghi et al. (2021) highlighted the importance of managerial and infrastructural factors in the role of mass media in developing Sport for All, while Gholami et al. (2017) showed that the effective use of technology in sport requires the improvement of relevant equipment and facilities.
Overall, it can be concluded that technological infrastructure, together with appropriate sport facilities and equipment, plays a facilitating role in the use of modern technologies for developing Sport for All in Iraq. Conversely, the weakness or absence of such infrastructure may constitute a major barrier. In addition, an inefficient management structure for Sport for All and insufficient support from managers and policymakers may weaken both the development of Sport for All and the effective adoption of modern technologies. By contrast, the cultural diversity and flexibility of society, along with Iraq’s climatic diversity, provide a suitable capacity for accepting and adapting different forms of modern technologies in the development of Sport for All.
Another finding of the study showed that the intervening conditions affecting the role of modern technologies in the development of Sport for All include economic, political, and socio-cultural factors. This finding is consistent with the studies of Chadwick (2022), Gholami Torkeshlouyeh et al. (2023), and Fozounkhah et al. (2021).
Chadwick (2022) considered economic factors to be among the influential components in the introduction of technology into Sport for All. Gholami Torkeshlouyeh et al. (2023) referred to the political challenges and considerations associated with the future of technology in Sport for All, while Fozounkhah et al. (2021) identified financial and economic factors as strategic weaknesses in the development of Sport for All.
This finding may be explained by the fact that the high costs of technological equipment and infrastructure, together with economic and political constraints, inflation, and economic deprivation, represent major barriers to the effective use of modern technologies in the development of Sport for All in Iraq. These conditions may disrupt or slow down the process of adopting and implementing such technologies in a systematic and sustainable manner.
Another part of the findings indicated that the strategies related to the use of modern technologies in the development of Sport for All include educational, managerial, cultural, research-based, and financial strategies. These results are consistent with the findings of Mamo et al. (2022), Chadwick et al. (2022), Fesanghari et al. (2022), Rahbari et al. (2021), Moshtaghi et al. (2021), and Irajpour et al. (2016).
Chadwick et al. (2022) considered financial strategies and support for investors to be essential requirements for the development of Sport for All. Mamo et al. (2022) reported that managerial reforms based on modern technologies can contribute effectively to the development of Sport for All. Fesanghari et al. (2022) categorized strategies for improving the use of modern technologies in recreational sport into several dimensions, including co-creation, technology ecosystem design, innovation development, technology piloting, marketing, commercialization, and stimulation of technology-based demand.
Similarly, Rahbari et al. (2021) identified financial support, the use of specialized human resources, and interaction with the media as effective strategies for developing Sport for All. Moshtaghi et al. (2021) also emphasized the role of culture-building, institutional interaction, financial support, and media engagement. Irajpour et al. (2016) reported that educational strategies, information dissemination, culture-building, and strengthening social participation are effective in the cultural development of Sport for All.
These findings suggest that targeted public education on the use of technologies applied in Sport for All, together with the training of sport managers and policymakers in how to utilize such technologies, can play a key role in developing technology-driven Sport for All in Iraq. Moreover, reforming the organizational structure of relevant institutions, strengthening interaction between organizations and society, promoting technological specialization, using domestic capacities, adapting programs to different social groups, and facilitating family participation can reduce a considerable part of the existing challenges. Alongside these measures, social culture-building, the development of problem-oriented research, and financial support from both the government and the private sector are essential requirements for this process.
The final findings showed that the consequences of using modern technologies in the development of Sport for All include sport development, knowledge development, economic development, health development, and international development. These findings are consistent with the results reported by Gholami Torkeshlouyeh et al. (2023), Garamvölgyi et al. (2022), Frevel et al. (2022), Farahani and Seyed Javadin (2022), Fesanghari et al. (2022), Rahbari et al. (2021), and Moshtaghi et al. (2021).
Gholami Torkeshlouyeh et al. (2023) identified sport development and economic development as key outcomes of expanding Sport for All. Garamvölgyi et al. (2022) showed that the development of Sport for All can contribute to socioeconomic growth and the enhancement of international diplomacy. Frevel et al. (2022) also predicted that, by 2030, technology would have a considerable impact on athletes, consumers, and sport managers. Farahani and Seyed Javadin (2022) referred to the improvement of sport service performance as a result of technology adoption, while Fesanghari et al. (2022) reported sport, economic, and health-related development as outcomes of using modern technologies in recreational sport.
Furthermore, Rahbari et al. (2021) highlighted the mutual benefits of supporting Sport for All for both sport federations and sponsoring companies. Moshtaghi et al. (2021) also regarded knowledge production, increased participation, and improved social interactions as important outcomes of technological development in sport.
Accordingly, the use of modern technologies in the development of Sport for All in Iraq can lead to changes in social attitudes, increased attractiveness of Sport for All, higher public participation, improved access to sport facilities, enhanced technological knowledge and skills, the creation of new jobs, economic development, improved public health, and reduced healthcare costs. In addition, drawing on successful international experiences and advanced global technologies can significantly improve the quality of Sport for All programs.
Overall, the findings indicate that although several economic, political, and structural barriers exist in the path of using modern technologies for the development of Sport for All, Iraq also possesses considerable capacities and opportunities to overcome these obstacles. Therefore, it is recommended that technological education for both society and managers, organizational reform, strengthened institutional and social interaction, specialization, culture-building, and financial support from the government and private sector be pursued simultaneously. The coherent implementation of these strategies can provide a foundation for the sustainable development of Sport for All in Iraq across sport, knowledge, economic, health, and international dimensions.
Ethics Statement
This study was conducted in accordance with the ethical principles for research involving human participants. Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to the interviews. Participation was voluntary, and confidentiality and anonymity were maintained throughout the study.
Author Contributions (CRediT)
J.J.J.A. contributed to conceptualization, data collection, formal analysis, and writing the original draft. N.A.K. contributed to supervision, methodology, validation, and writing-review and editing. A.N.B. contributed to methodology, validation, and critical revision of the manuscript. M.M. contributed to supervision, project administration, and final manuscript approval. All authors read and approved the final version of the manuscript.
Funding
The authors received no specific funding for this research.
Conflict of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Data Availability Statement
The qualitative data generated and analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request and subject to ethical restrictions concerning participant confidentiality.
AI Use Statement
Generative artificial intelligence tools were used only for language refinement and editorial assistance. All scientific content, data analysis, interpretation, reference verification, and final approval were completed by the authors, who take full responsibility for the manuscript.
Acknowledgments
The authors thank all experts who participated in the interviews and contributed their professional insights to this study.
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