An approach to the circus phenomenon in Chile and the characteristics of a circus educator

Abstract

This paper addresses the Chilean circus educational phenomenon specifically in the so-called «New Circus»[1], that is part of a larger study on the circus as a non-formal educational process. It aims to describe the phenomenon at the national level and identify the characteristics of a circus educator. The method was mixed, considering two phases, a self-administered questionnaire with 5 closed and 2 open questions applied.The sample calculation considered a 95% reliability and 5% error, achieving n= 320 (211 men 66% and 109 women 44%).The main results show a young population between 21 and 29 years old and a centralization of the circus phenomenon in the regions of the central zone of the country. The characteristics revealed, highlight the good humor, organization and planning added to the experience and pedagogical-circus trajectory. Concluding that it is necessary to decentralize and promote comprehensive training processes for those who decide to guide the circus educational process. © Federación Española de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educación Física (FEADEF).