Author: Eleftharia Giannopoulos

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Research Roundup

The EDGE – a path to STEM?

Research Roundup – We attended the Prince William Chamber of Commerce Education Summit yesterday and heard fascinating remarks from area experts about the future of education in the county and throughout Northern Virginia.  We, of course, strive to keep our programs relevant to the changing needs of our participants – from school-age youth to adult professionals.  The current buzzwords are STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Education and “empowering the knowledge economy,” which might make you think of white lab coats in computer-filled rooms – the complete opposite of what The EDGE programs are about.  However, research shows that outdoor education can increase diversity participation in the STEM sector:  http://www.education.com/reference/article/outdoor-education-science-math-diverse/?page=2.  We take pride in offering experiences that foster a life-long interest in science and discovery.  Is there anything more we should be doing to enhance our programming to make it more STEM-friendly?  We’d love to hear your comments.

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University Unwrapped

The EDGE at Mason Day

University Unwrapped – The sun was shinning, the music was loud, the lines for the free food snaked all around Parking Lot L – yes, it was Mason Day 2012 last Friday and The EDGE was there, were you?  We brought along a few simple but challenging games to play and gave out some bubble gum and bracelets.  And, our facilitator, Pujita, showed off her climbing expertise, getting to the top of the climbing wall the Army recruiters brought along.  Thanks to everyone who stopped by The EDGE table.  We had a great time and hope you did, too.

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Categories
University Unwrapped

The EDGE in the news

University Unwrapped – We were thrilled to have been mentioned in an article on the George Mason University website entitled:  Mason Brings Global Communities Together Through Sports Visitors Program.  We are honored to be a part of this incredible program that brings young athletes and coaches from around the world to the United States for training and cultural exchange.

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Community Corner

The EDGE @ The DC United Kids’ Day Event

Community Corner – The EDGE was honored to be one of just 8 vendors selected to participate in the DC United Kids’ Day @ RFK Event this April.  Hundreds of area youth stopped by our booth through half-time, to engage with the portable programming elements we brought along for the event which included the Towering Cups Challenge and Bull Ring.  We handed out nearly 300 flyers and wristbands about The EDGE and even ate a few cupcakes with the kids in honor of the DC United mascot, Talon’s, 13th birthday.  A huge thanks to DC United for including us in this special event.

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Categories
University Unwrapped

Just Published: “The Future of Outdoor Program Administration”

University Unwrapped – Our own Susan Johnson (The EDGE Manager and Mason School of Recreation, Tourism and Health Professor) co-authored a chapter in the newly published book, Outdoor Program Administration:  Principles and Practices.  Titled, “The Future of Outdoor Program Administration,” Laurlyn K. Harmon, Ph.D. and Susan describe how outdoor program administrators’ practices must keep pace with changing demographics, new technologies, economic conditions, and sustainability concerns.  The case study of Northbay Adventure Camp, demonstrates how one organization successfully implemented several strategies discussed in the chapter.  Below is an excerpt from the chapter:

Outdoor program administrators are increasingly pressured to be multitalented, professionally savvy, and creative in the management of their agencies and organizations.  The demands of clientele will change in the coming years, and the resources on which programs rely will continue to evolve.  Some of the critical facets to address include the increasing reliance and availability of a plethora of technological tools, for operations as well as participation; the need for securing funding in nontraditional ways; meeting the needs of a diverse staff; and engaging in multiple and increasingly sophisticated partnerships.  The need to address these critical concerns while maintaining and developing new, well-designed, and outstanding outdoor recreation programs drives the future of outdoor program administration.  By acknowledging these changes and capitalizing on the opportunities available, administrators will be able to proactively meet or exceed client, community, and employee expectations and exemplify leadership in our profession.