Fun

30%

Compassion

4%

Learning Experience

7%

Other

9%

Self Confidence

21%

Exercise / Health Benefit

9%

Independence

20%

All of the Above

8%

Other

8%

Did Not Answer

4%

Confidence

19%

Physical Benefits

23%

Fun

8%

Self-Esteem

30%

Time7%

Ski Enough + Other27%

Money36%

Transportation30%

Yes

89%

Maybe11%

No0%

Public Participation in Service Learning Programs for Disabled Persons: Results of a SurveyPauline J. Kelzer, DrPH (Dept. of Nursing and Health Sciences), and Mary-Ellen Pratt, BS, Graduate Program inHealth Care Administration (Dept. of Public Administration), California State University, Hayward

INTRODUCTION: A community service learning project was conducted between California State University Hayward (CSUH), and Tahoe Adaptive Ski School (TASS), a division of Disabled Sports, USA Far West (DSUSAFW). The project was a client survey which produced useful data for the non-profit organization and for the university. This poster summarizes findings from the survey, and demonstrates benefits of a community service learning partnership. The data were used for program review and grant proposals.

SELECTED FINDINGS: (See Charts) Generally Disabled Persons

1. BENEFITS The benefits of adaptive skiing are both physical and psychological, reflected in feelings of self-confidence and levels of self-esteem. (Kelzer and Pratt, 1999; Rimmer, 1998, Engel, et.al., 1997)

2. LEARNING ENVIRONMENT The physical activity of skiing is important, and instructors provide a supportive learning environment that is safe, fun, and educational.

3. OUTCOMES Respondents identified “fun” as the most significant aspect derived from adaptive skiing, and gave it primary importance. “Self-confidence” and “independence” were also identified as important.

Developmentally Disabled Persons

4. BARRIERS Access to adaptive skiing is still too limited for developmentally disabled persons. The barriers of money and transportation are key access issues.

5. FEELINGS Respondents’ positive answers reflected high levels of confidence and satisfaction, with a related boost to pride and self-image in being able to ski. (Biddle, 1995)

6. OTHER PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES Respondents overwhelmingly reported an interest in program expansion, as well as participating in other physical activities. http://www.nac1985.org

CONCLUSIONS: a) Community service learning projects can achieve multiple goals including public participation, program evaluation, client satisfaction, and research data. b) Both generally and developmentally disabled clients benefit from physical activity and show a strong interest in participation. (Rimmer, Braddock, Pitetti, 1996 and Rimmer, 1999) c) Access barriers are perceived by both groups of disabled persons; programs must address access issues. d) Confidence in one activity (adaptive skiing) spreads to other activities and contributes to independence. This confidence is reflected in the motto of DSUSA: “If I can do this, I can do anything!” http://www.dsusafw.org

Presented at 130th Annual Meeting, American Public Health Association, Philadelphia, PA, November, 2002.Grant support provided by Mary D’Alleva, Director, CSUH Office of Service Learning.Technical support provided by Bonnie Correia, CSUH Media and Technology Services.

1. Benefits 4. Barriers

2. Learning Environment 5. Feelings

3. Outcomes 6. Other Physical Activities

Fun

6%

Other

13%

Safe + Fun + Educational

70%

Safe + Fun

11%Good That I Can Ski

21%

Very Proud That I

Can Ski79%

OK / No Difference

0%