Campus Recreation Professionals: Supporting Employee Retention through Professional Development Workshops

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Campus Recreation Professionals: Supporting Employee Retention through Professional Development Workshops
Language: English
Authors: Joshua Sealey
Source: ProQuest LLC. 2024Ed.D. Dissertation, Arizona State University.
Availability: ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Peer Reviewed: N
Page Count: 134
Publication Date: 2024
Document Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Workshops, Labor Turnover, State Universities, Recreational Facilities, School Recreational Programs, Professional Development, Promotion (Occupational), Career Pathways, Professional Recognition, Work Environment, Intervention, Self Efficacy, Job Satisfaction, Sense of Community, Motivation, Professional Personnel
Geographic Terms: Arizona
ISBN: 979-83-8260-072-7
Abstract: Arizona State University's Sun Devil Fitness and Wellness department plays a vital role in enhancing the physical health and well-being of its student population. However, the demanding responsibilities placed on campus recreation professionals, combined with the high expectations for student engagement, have led to a concerning rise in employee turnover. To address this issue, a comprehensive series of professional development workshops was designed, aiming to empower campus recreation professionals in navigating their roles effectively and improving their overall experience. This mixed-methods action research study was conducted to address the challenge of employee retention among entry-level campus recreation professionals at Arizona State University. The research encompassed both quantitative and qualitative assessments, focusing on critical factors such as self-efficacy, career success, job satisfaction, sense of belonging, and motivation. The study aimed to determine whether significant differences existed in these variables before and after the intervention. Data collection involved surveys, open-ended questions, and interviews, offering a comprehensive understanding of the impact of the professional development workshops. The results of this study indicate that the professional development workshops served as an effective intervention on various constructs. Quantitative data showed a positive change in career success, motivation, and job satisfaction among staff members, while qualitative data shed light on key factors influencing employee retention. These factors included the lack of professional development opportunities, unclear career advancement pathways, a strong desire for more substantial recognition, and the paramount importance of supportive leadership and a positive work environment. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2024
Access URL: https://gateway.proquest.com/openurl?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:dissertation&res_dat=xri:pqm&rft_dat=xri:pqdiss:30995745
Accession Number: ED653076
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Arizona State University's Sun Devil Fitness and Wellness department plays a vital role in enhancing the physical health and well-being of its student population. However, the demanding responsibilities placed on campus recreation professionals, combined with the high expectations for student engagement, have led to a concerning rise in employee turnover. To address this issue, a comprehensive series of professional development workshops was designed, aiming to empower campus recreation professionals in navigating their roles effectively and improving their overall experience. This mixed-methods action research study was conducted to address the challenge of employee retention among entry-level campus recreation professionals at Arizona State University. The research encompassed both quantitative and qualitative assessments, focusing on critical factors such as self-efficacy, career success, job satisfaction, sense of belonging, and motivation. The study aimed to determine whether significant differences existed in these variables before and after the intervention. Data collection involved surveys, open-ended questions, and interviews, offering a comprehensive understanding of the impact of the professional development workshops. The results of this study indicate that the professional development workshops served as an effective intervention on various constructs. Quantitative data showed a positive change in career success, motivation, and job satisfaction among staff members, while qualitative data shed light on key factors influencing employee retention. These factors included the lack of professional development opportunities, unclear career advancement pathways, a strong desire for more substantial recognition, and the paramount importance of supportive leadership and a positive work environment. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
ISBN:979-83-8260-072-7