Abstract
A team of conference participant observers studied the "curriculum" of the 2001 NASPA National Conference. The team assessed the extent to which different subgroups of conference attendees sensed the presence of a conference "curriculum." The team also studied subgroups' perceptions of whether the learning outcomes of the perceived curriculum for the conference were addressed during the conference, and the reasons why participants chose to attend the conference.
Only a relatively small percentage of conference participants surveyed perceived that the conference had a discrete "curriculum." Various subgroups perceived the presence of the learning outcomes for the conference differently. "Professional development" was the most common reason for conference attendance. Three of five subgroups rated the outcome, "development and enhancement of collegial relationships," as the outcome which was emphasized most strongly. This suggests the presence of a "hidden" curriculum that places a high value on the personal relationships fostered through conference attendance.
Recommended Citation
Flores, Robert; Kubicki, Lisa; Mowry, Cynthia; Stringer, Jeremy; and Vanderbout, Jenne
(2008)
"An Analysis of the “Curriculum” of the NASPA National Conference,"
MAGIS: Vol. 2:
Iss.
1, Article 6.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.seattleu.edu/magis/vol2/iss1/6