The NCAA has announced the launch of its first e-learning module with a specific focus on sports wagering.
The new module, which was launched with an introductory video. The NCAA has received feedback from student-athletes, campus leaders, and NCAA engaged former athletes in order to design and tailor the e-learning module and “better connect with current student-athletes”.
The module aims to educate over 500,000 current and future student-athletes about the dangers of problem gambling and the risks that sports betting poses to the fairness of their games. It covers betting on their own games and the threats from outside parties trying to influence outcomes through contact. The module will also address topics like NCAA regulations and harassment on social media.
NCAA President Charlie Baker stated, “One of the first things I did after becoming NCAA president was to collect as much information as I could about sports betting at college campuses. This educational resource is based on that data. We think this new program will help safeguard student-athletes from the dangers associated with sports wagering.”
He continued: “The data is clear that athletes with firsthand experiences connect with current student-athletes better than any other material we could develop, so we are incredibly grateful for their participation in this effort.”
The NCAA crafted module will be freely available to all students, that is interactive, offering information, scenarios, questions and answers and resources delivered by former student-athletes, for the future-generation of student-athletes.
The aforementioned video featured Zaire Franklin, Indianapolis Colts NFL linebacker and former Syracuse football student-athlete, who kicks off the learning experience. Mikala Hall and Joshua Butler also feature in subsequent videos, taking students through the threats of sports wagering.
Zaire Franklin said: “Sports wagering has exploded in our society, and it is extremely important for athletes — at all levels — to receive thorough education on the rules and risks of sports betting to help protect themselves, their team, sport, mental health, finances and future.”
The launch of the elearning module is also being run alongside a NCAA national survey, around student-athlete sports wagering attitudes and behaviors. Further, the NCAA has also recently advocated for sports betting law changes and a common set of rules and regulations across all US states where sports betting is legalized.