ERIC Number: EJ1058762
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013-Sep
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1053-8259
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Explicating Practicum Program Theory: A Case Example in Human Ecology
Chandler, Kathryn M. M.; Williamson, Deanna L.
Journal of Experiential Education, v36 n3 p188-202 Sep 2013
This study explicated the theory underpinning the Human Ecology Practicum Program offered in the Department of Human Ecology at the University of Alberta. The program has operated for 40 years but never been formally evaluated. Using a document analysis, focus group and individual interviews, and a stakeholder working group, we explored stakeholder perspectives on the purpose, design, and logic of the program. Findings indicated a common understanding among stakeholders about the fundamental purpose and design of the program, and about the mechanisms by which design features lead to program goals. Findings were used to develop the theory of the Human Ecology Practicum Program. In addition to providing a case example of practicum program theory development, our study demonstrates the value of involving stakeholders in theory development and supports the articulation of program theory as part of course planning and evaluation within postsecondary education programs.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Ecology, Practicums, Program Evaluation, Experiential Learning, Postsecondary Education, Undergraduate Study, Educational Theories, Educational Strategies, Instructional Design, Best Practices, Stakeholders, Focus Groups, Interviews, Alumni
SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: http://sagepub.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Postsecondary Education; Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Canada
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A

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