Abstract:
The objective of this study was to assess the personal and educational impact of an equine program on students at Southern Utah University (SUU). A survey was developed with statements to be evaluated on a Likert-type scale with five response levels. The survey was distributed to students enrolled in equine courses during three consecutive semesters. A total of 163 students voluntarily completed the survey, which included students of various horse experience, majors, and class standing. Students expressed their strongest agreement with items related to gaining new knowledge, (P< 0.01) followed by items related to providing personal benefits. Students also agreed equine courses helped them develop skills and had a favorable impact on their education at SUU. Almost one-half (47.1%) of the students indicated the horse program had influenced their decision to attend or remain at SUU, and 98.8% of students agreed or strongly agreed they would recommend the courses to others. More than one-third of students also expressed interest in an equine science degree or minor. It has been concluded from the survey results that equine courses have a favorable impact on students through personal and educational value, and they strengthen the educational experience at SUU.
Keywords:
equine program, student satisfaction, retention
 3 Perceptions of the Impact of an Equine Program.pdf | [ ] | 107 kB |
