Vol. 19, No. 3 - Summer 2003

From the dean

One of the impressive aspects of our college is the breadth of the academic programs and diversity of the research conducted by faculty, staff, and students. While preparation of teachers and school administrators is a core mission for us, it is just one of many areas in which we work to advance knowledge of learning and human development.

Consider recent research and outreach by our faculty and staff:

• brain waves in babies, blind spots in automobiles
• the impact of disaster and terrorism on individuals with disabilities, better ways to integrate individuals with disabilities in school and community settings
• more effective ways to teach young children language and reading literacy skills, working with parent educators to create strong and healthy families
• promoting the inclusion of girls and women in sport, helping teachers accurately and quickly assess student progress.

Educational research is wide-ranging because learning takes place in many ways and in many venues. Interdisciplinary study allows us to unlock knowledge about healthy human development—academically, physically, and psychologically; at home, in school, and at work.

Here in the college, researchers in the School of Kinesiology examine how physical activity involves not only the more obvious issues of health and wellness, but also impacts our social actions and the health of our communities and our environment. This issue of Link features the work of alumni of the school’s park and recreation programs, and the contributions they’re making to learning and human development. I hope you enjoy their stories.