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Chandler, Kathryn M. M.; Williamson, Deanna L.
doi: 10.1177/1053825913489101pmid: N/A
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.
Battey, Glenda J. L.; Ebbeck, Vicki
doi: 10.1177/1053825913489102pmid: N/A
Bullying behavior has problematic psychosocial ramifications for the bully, victim, and those who are both a bully and a victim. The Bully Prevention Challenge Course Curriculum utilizes a challenge ropes course to address bully behaviors in seventh-grade middle school classes. The program incorporates the use of challenge activities framed with metaphors reflecting bully behaviors and encourages participants to discuss how to identify and address bully behaviors, as well as to challenge themselves to promote self-growth. The purpose of this study was to ascertain through focus group discussions the experiences of students and teachers/staff directly involved in the program. Findings revealed that positive outcomes were attributed to participation in the program including enhanced communication and interaction among the students, improved trust in self and others, a greater awareness of behaviors that can lead to bullying, and a common language for students and teachers to dialogue about the topic of bullying. The vast majority of those associated with the program found it to be beneficial and advocated for the program to be continued in the future.
Rutko, Ebony A.; Gillespie, Judy
doi: 10.1177/1053825913489107pmid: N/A
This article seeks to provide a review of the theoretical and empirical literature in the field of wilderness therapy, the intent of which is to gain a greater conceptual understanding of the importance of the physical environment in therapeutic intervention. A review and consolidation of the existing literature reveal that the theories used to explain the outcomes of wilderness therapy relate to variables that are not exclusive to a wilderness setting and may even be amenable to replication in an urban environment. This article raises the question of whether we are unnecessarily taking adolescents into the wilderness if these interventions can be contrived within urban settings or whether there is something about the wilderness specifically that is currently missing from the theoretical literature. The article concludes with a discussion of avenues to facilitate this theoretical development.
doi: 10.1177/1053825913489104pmid: N/A
This study describes the efficacy of modifications made to a higher education Latina/o public speaking course to enhance student growth and understanding. The changes included the addition of a service-learning component and the incorporation of culturally relevant pedagogy. Selected research, particularly related to college students, on culturally diverse populations and culturally relevant pedagogy is reviewed along with literature on Latino pedagogy. Data were collected through student and instructor journals, student reflection papers, and instructor observations of students. Two main themes emerged from the data: student reflections concerning service-learning mentoring work with the elementary and middle school students, and their experience in relating course materials to this work. Results demonstrated the effectiveness of service-learning and culturally relevant pedagogy, and implications for their application on a larger scale and to other types of classrooms are discussed.
doi: 10.1177/1053825913489103pmid: N/A
An experiential approach to professional development (EPD) allowed Spanish teachers opportunities to improve their practice through demonstration, observation, collaboration, fieldwork, and reflection. As result of experiential professional development, Burke (2012) found that teachers’ knowledge about communicative language teaching developed, and teachers’ beliefs about language teaching changed. The Spanish teachers implemented communicative methods, which they had used rarely, if ever, prior to EPD. Through qualitative analysis of teacher questionnaires and written reflections, as well as the researcher’s observations and field notes, it was discovered that specific components of EPD made it successful. Teachers believed it promoted a collaborative community because it incorporated purposeful meetings, peer observations, and peer and student feedback. Teachers appreciated the on-site coaching and practical application that allowed them time to experiment with communicative methods. EPD provided an effective alternative to classroom-based university courses that allowed for viable change in classrooms. The results show that experiential educators should consider collaborating with professors, researchers, staff developers, school administrators, and teachers to create meaningful, transformative, EPD in which classroom teachers understand and apply theory and research into practice effectively.
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