The Campus Recreation Assessment Model

Abstract

Campus recreation assessment is an essential component for providing the finest programs, services, facilities, and equipment to the campus community. The assessment process becomes manageable and less intimidating once simplified. The author recommends the use of an assessment model that includes the department mission, vision, and values, along with program, facility, management, and operations goals and objectives. Included in the assessment process is feedback from a diverse group of people such as participants, nonparticipants, programmers, administration, and external evaluators. An essential component of the process is the collection of learning outcomes data from participants, which provides evidence of the unique learning that takes place within campus recreation programs. The results from the assessment process should assist the strategic plan review and drive decision making. Finally, results need to be shared for “impact” purposes to promote campus recreation, expand programs, advocate for facility growth, and motivate participants.