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Dilemmas of Program Directors: Then and Now
Sally A. Perkins1, Michael R. Judd
1Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY.
Journal of Athletic Training
|August 26, 2003
Summary
Athletic training program directors face ongoing challenges with credibility, clinical involvement, and academic advancement. These issues persist despite educational reforms, highlighting the need for clear communication of roles.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Allied Health Education
- Academic Administration
Background:
- Athletic training program directors (ATPDs) play a crucial role in educating future professionals.
- Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) sets standards for these programs.
- Previous studies have identified persistent dilemmas faced by ATPDs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To delineate the current roles and responsibilities of CAAHEP-accredited athletic training program directors.
- To examine persistent challenges including credibility with students, tenure and promotion, and clinical engagement.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to program directors of CAAHEP-accredited undergraduate athletic training programs.
- Data collected included demographics, job responsibilities, expectations, and academic appointments.
- Eighty-three program directors (73.4% response rate) participated.
Main Results:
- The majority of respondents held the title of program director with a median of 9 years of experience.
- Most certified athletic trainers had extensive experience (median 18.5 years).
- Teaching was the primary duty (96%), with 43% holding doctoral degrees and assistant professor rank.
Conclusions:
- Dilemmas concerning tenure, promotion, reduced clinical involvement, and student perceptions remain significant issues for athletic training program directors.
- These challenges are exacerbated by ongoing educational reforms.
- Effective communication of roles and responsibilities to administrators is essential for program directors.