A comparison of the of the perceived relative importance of council on accreditation curriculum standards between academicians and public park and recreation administrators

An important factor in developing an effective curriculum is the need for academicians to understand the breadth of knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to engage in professional practice. Previous and recent research indicates that academicians may need a better understanding of the breadth of mastery needed by students in certain NRPA identified professional competency areas. The purpose of the current study was to compare academician's perceptions of the level of competence being received by graduates to public park and recreation administrator's perceptions of the level of competence needed for professional practice. The study identified that discrepancies exist between the views of academicians and practitioners as to. what is the critical education undergraduates need in order to become successful practitioners. Results further indicate that professional preparation programs should focus more heavily on developing student competence in administration and management.