Full Speed Ahead: Using a Senior Capstone Course to Facilitate Students' Professional Transition

Abstract

In recent years, institutions of higher education have become more focused on preparing students for their professional lives through senior seminars and capstone courses. Specifically in the fields of physical education, recreation and dance (PERD), it is strongly recommended by both the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation and SHAPE America – Society of Health and Physical Educators that academic departments focus on helping students develop professional dispositions that will enable them to be successful professionals. The purpose of this article is to describe how one department of sport science and physical education uses a senior capstone course to prepare students for a successful transition into the professional world. The authors first discuss the current skills and professional dispositions necessary for students in PERD-related fields. Next, the course objectives and specific assignments used to help students develop these professional skills and dispositions are presented. The authors conclude with student feedback and a brief summary of recommendations to help teachers facilitate students' professional development.