Papers by Jonathan Locust, Jr., Ph.D., CSSBB
The Journal of Education Research and Interdisciplinary Studies, 2019
Colleges and universities are facing the challenge of providing an environment of acceptance. As ... more Colleges and universities are facing the challenge of providing an environment of acceptance. As a cocurricular activity within higher education, campus recreation programs are expected to provide opportunities for students to become aware and appreciative of cultures or individuals different from themselves. The main purpose of this study was to address the lack of research on diversity/multicultural training programs within campus recreation departments. In this study, we explored the diversity/multicultural training that was offered, the benefits of this training, and the growing need for these programs within campus recreation departments. Of the 105 campus recreation departments surveyed, 93% indicated they agree or strongly agree that campus recreation leadership is fully committed to the long-term success of diversity/multicultural awareness strategies and initiatives. However, only 44% stated they currently provide or implement diversity/multicultural training. Diversity/multicultural training may be a necessary component to impart personal knowledge and training to its employees to effectively achieve diversity goals.
The main purpose of this study was to identify what factors restrict campus recreation department... more The main purpose of this study was to identify what factors restrict campus recreation departments from performing diversity/multicultural training. This study addressed the lack of research on diversity/multicultural training programs within campus recreation departments and examined the relationship between type of institution, department size, and the number and types of diversity/multicultural training programs offered in an academic year. Of the 210 campus recreation departments surveyed, 52% indicated they did not have enough time to give the necessary attention to diversity/multicultural training and any related strategies and initiatives. Of the 108 institutions that offer diversity/multicultural training, limited staff (47%), limited expertise/knowledge (46%), and other constraints (41%) hindered their ability to carry out effective diversity/multicultural training. By identifying diversity/multicultural training as a priority, campus recreation administrators could focus on what they are capable of providing given their department's staff, resources, budget, and knowledge of diversity/multicultural training programs. An increased awareness of the specific needs of diverse populations has occurred over the past several years. Little research has been conducted on meeting the recreational needs of diverse groups within campus recreation. Implementing an effective training protocol is one means of improving awareness and providing quality programming. According to Kaltenbaugh, Parsons, Brubaker, Bonadio, and Locust (2014), " Diversity/multicultural training is the process of sharing vision, goals, and commitment, then incorporating the ideas of that program into a process that generates into any organization's daily routines "
Influence of Involvement and Cognitive Ability on College Retention
Uploads
Papers by Jonathan Locust, Jr., Ph.D., CSSBB