Program Overview

Radford University Program Information

Introduction to Recreation Therapy (RCPT 319)

Course Description: Provides knowledge of the theories and concepts of therapeutic recreation, leisure, social psychology, and human development as related to the nature and scope of health and human service delivery systems and the ability to integrate these in a variety of settings.

Prerequisites:

• Major in RCPT

Credit Hours:

• 3 credit hours

• Students cannot receive credit for both RCPT 219 and RCPT 319.

Detailed Description of Content of the Course

This course deals with aspects of disabling conditions and how individuals with these conditions may be integrated into public and private services. Topics discussed will include:

• Attitudes toward individuals with disabilities
• Legislation
• Accessibility
• Rights of individuals with disabilities
• Understanding of specific conditions

Detailed Description of Conduct of the Course

The course will include lecture and experiential components intended to further student understanding of responsibilities for serving individuals with disabilities. Personalizing beliefs toward disabilities and drawing on past experiences will be used to facilitate student learning. In addition, students will be required to participate in several activities that focus on the inclusion rather than the exclusion of these individuals.

Goals and Objectives of the Course

1. Understanding of the importance of leisure service delivery systems for diverse populations.
2. Understanding of inclusive practices as they apply to:

• Operating programs and services
• Design of areas and facilities

3. Knowledge of the roles, functions, and trends in health and human service agencies and the role of therapeutic recreation in these settings.
4. Knowledge of the impact of social attitudes toward illness and disability and of the attitudes and self-concepts held by individuals with illnesses and/or disabilities during leisure experiences.
5. Knowledge of the nature and implications of governmental regulations, professional standards of practice, external accreditation, and agency standards relative to therapeutic recreation service.

Assessment Measures

Student progress will be assessed through:

• Homework
• Assignments
• Exams
• Disability awareness projects
• Reaction journals

Revision History

• Revised 2013
• Revised February 2005 by Edward Udd, Chair
• Revised 5/7/09