GR24 CAEC - Liberty - Rule 50

The students were gathered at the school lab after school hours. The course was divided into 4 separate parts

Part1 – Engagement. The students had to answer a quick poll of whether athletes should be allowed to express political or social views during the Olympics.

Part2 – Research. Students were split into 2 different groups. The first groups was assigned to focus on pros and the second on cons of Rule 50. They were encouraged to use credible sources (IOC website, news articles, athlete interviews). As a guidance, each group should answer what is the purpose of Rule 50, how does it benefit or harm athletes and the Olympic movement and are there alternative solutions?

Part3 – Presentation and Presentation. Each group made a presentation of their findings and presented their thoughts to the rest of the group. After that a debate followed on whether Rule 50 should be abolished in the Olympic Games. Each side was allowed to present their argument. Respectful counterarguments were encouraged. Finally the initial poll was given again to the students. Some of them didn’t change their minds but some of the students reevaluate their argumenta and initial thoughts.

Part4 – Proposing Alternative. Both groups had to search the web and propose some changes in Rule 50, that aim to balance the integrity and unity of the Olympic Games with respect for individual expression, ensuring that athletes’ voices are heard without undermining the global spirit of the event.

A presentation of the action can be found here