Best Practices of Accessibililty in Parks and Recreation: A Delphi Survey of National Experts in Accessibility

Abstract

More and more, recreation professionals contact NCA already armed with information on the minimum compliance requirements, but are now seeking information on best practices that exceed the minimum requirements, and are therefore more likely to achieve full inclusion. The need for specific information regarding the best method or that which exceeds the minimum standard has warranted this research study. Currently, no formal document with best practices information exists for practitioners seeking to exceed the minimum compliance requirements set forth under the ADA and other disability-related legislation. As a result of frequent inquiries regarding best practices from practitioners, NCA initiated this research study in order to ascertain which practices in the field of parks and recreation accessibility management exceed the minimum standards set forth by the ADA and other disability-related legislation. The final purpose of the research was to create a document that details “best practices” in the delivery of recreation and leisure service in a variety of settings. The study was coordinated by NCA with support from faculty and staff from the Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Studies and the Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands, at Indiana University-Bloomington.