Women Faculty, Higher Education, and the Recreation/Leisure Field

Abstract

Women represent growing numbers of faculty members in higher education as well as in recreation/leisure departments. The purpose of this study is to describe the career development of women faculty in recreation-related areas and to offer implications for faculty development and the preparation of future faculty. Data were collected from women who belong to National Parks and Recreation Association and who identify as educators. An online survey used a career development model, which combines factors related to current position, career patterns, career satisfaction, family/work/leisure balance, and gender equity. Similarities are found across the academic ranks related to job satisfaction, attitudes toward job, life balance perceptions, and the gender equity subscales. However, some notable differences are evident relative to influence in the organization, extrinsic expectations (e.g., salary, benefits and perks), and perceived career advancement opportunities, which are all rated higher by full professors than women faculty in other ranks.

KEYWORDS:

• Career development
• career satisfaction
• gender equity
• life balance