Masters Theses
Date of Award
5-1989
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Major
Recreation and Sport Management
Major Professor
Mary Dale Blanton
Committee Members
Craig A. Wrisberg, Gene A. Hayes
Abstract
Since the 1970's there has been a nationwide movement to Increase camping services to special population Individuals. Little Information exists on how that movement Is affecting camping opportunities for these Individuals In the state of Tennessee. It was the purpose of this study to Identify residential camps In Tennessee and to assess their potential use by special population Individuals. Sub-problems Included
1. The number and location of residential camps In Tennessee.
2. The types of facilities that are accessible at the camps.
3. The types of groups served by the camps.
4. The types of groups the camps are prepared willing to serve In the future.
5. The operating procedures of the camps.
The sample population Included camp directors/administrators In the state of Tennessee representing fifty-two residential camps.
Results Indicated that approximately half of the camps served special population groups.
Camping opportunities are available but are limited. Only a small number of residential camps serve Individuals with specific disabilities. Fewer than fifty percent Indicated a desire to serve special population Individuals In the future.
Facility accessibility in these camps was inconsistent and sporadic and only one camp was totally accessible (by the study's standards) to physically disabled populations.
Further recommendations included:
1. Further research should be done to determine if a trend develops over the next two to six year period in the number of increased services to special populations by those camps in the study who indicated they wished to serve special population groups in the future.
2. An in-depth study should be conducted to determine if ownership of a camp effects services to special population individuals.
3. The effects of camper costs per session and the length of the camp session should be compared and investigated.
4. An information guide and training program should be developed on modifying/adapting outdoor recreational facilities.
5. A resource guide to residential camps in Tennessee should be developed. The guide should include information on accessible facilities the camps have to offer.
6. Education/training programs similar to Project Reach and Project Stretch should be offered to Tennessee camp directors. These workshops would emphasize techniques and methods of working with special population individuals and enable camp directors/ administrators/staff to assist in meeting the special needs of these groups.
7. An in-depth study should be conducted on program activities that are offered to special population individuals by Tennessee residential camps.
Recommended Citation
Reed, Donna Behm, "An assessment of residential camp facilities in Tennessee and their potential for use by special population individuals. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1989.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/13058
