The Impact of Recreation Sports Facilities on University Student's Social Interaction and Campus Culture

Date of Degree

8-2002

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Program

Education

Advisor

William Carleton

Advisor

Jessica C. Kimmel

Advisor

Nancy Robbins

Advisor

Dorothy Ettling

Abstract

This study examined the relationship among the type and availability o f recreational sports facilities, campus lifestyles, and student social interaction through a sociological analysis of particular institution cultures. The research employed triangulation and qualitative methods, including interviews with directors of athletics, directors of intramurals, directors of student life, and students from several universities in San Antonio. Texas. The relationship among recreational sports facilities, cam pus culture, and student social interaction is complex. The findings of this study show that there is a significant relationship among the sports and recreational facilities usage and (a) campus culture, (b) social interaction, (c) academic performance, and (d) unique campus cultures. Campus culture and the resulting campus lifestyle are affected by many institutional and sociological factors. In addition, the relationship between intramural sports programs and recreational sports facilities is reciprocal. This study provides support for the idea that recreational sports facilities can contribute to the creation of positive campus cultures and healthy, high social interaction among students, who do not achieve this in and of themselves.

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