Institutional Type and Campus Recreation Department Staff as a Mediating Factor for Diversity/Multicultural Training

Abstract

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.