Minorities in Kinesiology: challenges encountered in the pursuit of an athletic training degree and beyond
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Lauren D. Griffin (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Diane Gill
Abstract: Racial and ethnic minorities in higher education have low enrollment and graduation rates. This well-known problem continues to plague the higher education system. Specifically, in athletic training, the enrollment and retention numbers for minorities are low compared with other healthcare education programs. Increasing the minority population in any healthcare profession plays an important role in the care of its patients (Baldwin et al., 2006). The purpose of this study was to identify the perceived challenges and opportunities minorities encounter throughout their graduate and professional careers in athletic training and to identify strategies for success. A survey was completed by 29 graduate athletic training students and 34 Black certified athletic trainers in District 3 of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association. A voluntary post-survey interview was conducted with 6 certified athletic trainers. The results indicated that minority students and professionals experience ethnicity-related bias and have stereotyping concerns. The minority graduate students have more obligations outside of classes that impact their studies and reported less inclusive experiences at their institutions than their white peers. One theme emerged from the analysis of the interviews conducted with Black professionals– representation matters. Lack of representation leaves the few isolated, takes a toll on confidence and belonging, and results in inadequate resources and dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within athletic training. This study, along with other related research, highlights the challenges that plague minority enrollment and retention into the athletic training profession.
Minorities in Kinesiology: challenges encountered in the pursuit of an athletic training degree and beyond
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Created on 12/1/2020
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Dissertation
- Language: English
- Date: 2020
- Keywords
- Athletic training, Minorities
- Subjects
- Athletic trainers $z United States
- Minorities $x Education (Higher) $z United States
- Minorities $x Employment $z United States