Describes service learning, presenting various techniques, tools, and tips for student projects, based on the principles of self-directed classroom and organizational development theories, that were developed through a reflection-in-action process. The article discusses applications of these techniques to the operations of student-run projects at…

Collected and applied student feedback intended to help revise one therapeutic recreation program's curriculum in response to student concerns about excessive course content during the final semester before internship. Data from surveys and focus groups indicated a need to move some course content from senior level courses to courses taken…

In the 1990s, the National Recreation and Park Association launched the Benefits Movement, which is based on benefits-based programming, benefits-based management, and benefits-based awareness. This paper provides park and recreation educators with an overview of the Benefits Movement, exploring its utility as a means through which academia can…

Argues that recreation and leisure studies curricula often fail to provide students with adequate knowledge to understand, critically analyze, and discuss leisure. By studying leisure from a humanist perspective (philosophy, history, and literature), educators can respond to this problem, preparing students to critically respond to challenges they…

Comparatively analyzes the process of and trends in program accreditation in parks and recreation curricula and health care, noting implications for the future of accreditation. The paper makes recommendations to improve specialized accreditation in parks and recreation due to the increasing demand for identifying quality via outcome measurement.…

Presents a case study on the recruitment and retention of students from underrepresented minority groups into recreation, parks, and leisure studies programs. Strategies that can be implemented by other recreation and leisure studies departments are outlined, which include: develop mentor programs, provide student funding, connect students to role…

Examined the professional organizational involvement and attitudes toward involvement of undergraduate parks and recreation students. Survey data indicated a lack of familiarity with organizations. Students' interests and familiarity differed by class level and emphasis area. Students perceived multiple benefits and deterrents to professional…

Explores ideas to help college educators empower students through their teaching. The article discusses assumptions of power and privilege that underlie empowerment, providing examples of how educators can disempower. Biological, psychological, and sociocultural processes of empowerment as related to race, gender, and disability are examined. (SM)

This study compared U.S. and international tourism professionals' perceptions of course topics in graduate and undergraduate global tourism curricula. Ratings of topics by importance indicated professionals perceived no course topic as lower than medium importance for either level. There were differences in responses by geographic location or…

This paper examines teacher evaluation practices in leisure studies programs, noting the perceived effectiveness of rating instruments. Surveys of leisure studies professors nationwide indicated many institutions used evaluation instruments and processes that were not statistically validated; key decisions were often made on the basis of these…

This study investigated the ethics and effectiveness of a community service project with disabled citizens designed to foster college students' social responsibility. Community service raised student awareness of the need for inclusion of disabled citizens in community leisure programs and for genuine respect. Results also raised issues of…

Providing quality personal assistance to interns and preserving faculty time for other activities is challenging for educators. Indiana University faculty developed a HyperCard software stack that allowed students to work independently, at their own pace, with selected tasks requiring faculty input during the internship preparation,…

Describes how New York University developed educational experiences about gay and lesbian persons for college students; includes the philosophy behind the curriculum, developmental processes, course development, student profiles and course evaluation, theoretical approaches to course content, and teaching strategies. (Author/SM)

A content analysis of 246 recreation, parks, and leisure related dissertation abstracts was conducted for the years 1980-90 to explore trends in dissertations. Results found a decrease in the number of dissertations completed, with more men than women completing dissertations. The majority of degrees were Ph.Ds. (SM)

Reports a study that examined the perceptions of key administrators regarding strategies to help parks, recreation, and leisure curricula remain proactive against potential threats during the current economic restriction and increased accountability. Interviewees were realistic about the current situation but optimistic about their strategies to…