Policies and Practices for Equity: Perspectives of Campus Recreation Staff in North America

Abstract

Given continued physical activity disparities among college students based on gender identity, race, and sexual orientation, it is important to identify policies and practices to support more equitable physical activity participation opportunities. This mixed-methods study examined perceptions of equity policies and practices among North American campus recreation staff (n = 254). Institution and staff characteristics along with department values, existence of written policies, and perceptions of current and potential equity policies/practices were collected via an online survey in November 2020. Quantitative data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and importance-performance analysis; qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analyses. Findings indicate an apparent disconnect between campus recreation departments’ stated values and written policies, and reveal gaps between perceived importance and performance of equity priorities. However, qualitative responses included many promising equity practices which could help facilitate physical activity participation for all students through creation of an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment for diverse student populations.