RPTM 236Leadership and Group Dynamics in Recreation Services

3 credits · Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management · Penn State

Supervision in recreation services, including theories, strategies, group dynamics, applied leadership and decision-making skills. RPTM 236 Leadership and Group Dynamics in Recreation Services (3)The primary objectives of RPTM 236 are for students to examine both leadership and group dynamics as a function of leisure and recreation services. Students in RPTM 236 will be given a variety of leadership opportunities, both in and out of class, to begin to develop leadership skills as well as observe others in recreation leadership positions. Information on leadership theory and group dynamics (group development, roles in groups, group decision making) will be provided through group exercises and hands on experiences. Main topics include: Leadership theory; Approaches to leadership; leadership styles; Definition of group including characteristics and effective group management; Group decision making and problem solving; Recreation leadership skills including behavior management, interpersonal skills and motivation; Teaching as a leadership skill; learning theory; Communication as a leadership skill; Teambuilding RPTM 236 is a required course for RPTM majors. Students in other majors are welcome. It is strongly suggested that RPTM 236 be taken prior to, not concurrent with RPTM 356.