Diversifying the Narrative by Bringing Practitioners to the Research Table

In this episode of 'The Pudding', hosts Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison are joined by Drs. Lisa Meerts-Brandsma and Jim Sibthorp to dive into groundbreaking research in the camp world. The discussion covers their journeys of becoming researchers, the link between the camping and outdoor education industries, and pivotal findings from recent studies. Lisa emphasizes increasing camp access and inclusion, while Jim highlights the complexities of understanding developmental impacts when researching in isolation. They also share thoughts on the evolution of camp research, potential future directions, and the importance of collaborating closely with practitioners.

Episode Guide

• 00:41 Meet the Hosts and Guests

• 01:07 Lisa & Jim’s Journeys to Camp Research

• 06:41 Jim’s Research:Maximizing Developmental Potential

• 08:53 Lisa’s Research: Increasing Access to Camps

• 11:15 Using Research to Market Camp to a More Diverse Population

• 17:25 The ACA’s Youth Impact Study and Diversifying the Narrative

• 21:50 The Evolution of Camp Research over Jim’s Career

• 28:42 The Missing Piece of the Camp Research Puzzle

• 33:21 Future Directions: Bridges Between Researchers & Practitioners

• 35:27 Future Directions: Experience Quality over Activity Base

• 40:39 Community Level Research & Identity Shaping Experience (ft. the Magic Funding Pot!)

• 43:28 Recommended Researchers to Follow & Episode Wrap-up

Your Hosts

• Dr. Mandi Baker, Researcher - Summer Camp, Outdoor Recreation, Sociology and Hospitality/Tourism - getlamped@gmail.com

• Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp Pro - travis@gocamp.pro

• Dr. Lisa Meerts-Brandsma - Assistant Professor, University of Utah - lisa.meerts@utah.edu

• Dr. Jim Sibthorp - Professor, University of Utah - jim.sibthorp@health.utah.edu

Thanks to our sponsors!

The American Camp Association - Illinois

The American Camp Association of Illinois is made up of nearly 289,000 members, volunteers, campers, families, and professionals who believe in the power of camp. We work to disrupt the effects of poverty by providing fundamental services for children and families, and learning opportunities for camp professionals. Learn more about ACA Illinois by visiting acail.org.

Camptivities

You know the impact you want camp to make in a child’s life. But figuring out the day-to-day details can be overwhelming. Let Camptivities help you make that impact by streamlining the creation of your camp activity schedules. Schedule a demo at camptivities.com.