Theses and Dissertations at Montana State University (MSU)
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Item An assessment of equine assisted growth learning association and professional association of therapeutic horsemanship programs in Montana(Montana State University - Bozeman, College of Agriculture, 2014) Prechter, Amy Kristine; Chairperson, Graduate Committee: Shannon ArnoldIn Montana, there are a limited number of programs offering equine assisted services. Equine assisted therapies and learning activities are gaining popularity as a modern, alternative form of human therapy and learning. Services may include equine assisted or facilitated psychotherapy, equine assisted or facilitated learning, and therapeutic riding. Professional associations such as PATH Intl. and EAGALA have become the industry standards and paved the way for program development and growth. This study examined the structure of Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) and the Professional Association of Therapeutic Riding International (Path Intl.) programs in Montana. The study also described factors and experiences that influence these programs and a professional logic model was developed based on results. Six individual case studies were conducted to describe and assess the structure of EAGALA and PATH Intl. programs in Montana. Four individual cases within Montana as well as the two national associations were examined. This qualitative case study utilized a series of interviews and the collection of unobtrusive data from each case. Content analysis was used to analyze and code the data into common themes. Data were further analyzed within and across-cases to develop common classification themes (Creswell, 2013; Hatch, 2002; Yin, 2009 ). Findings revealed there is an increasing demand for quality, professional equine therapy programs in Montana. To implement and maintain programs, several common needs were identified across cases including assistance in marketing and promotion of programs, training on business planning and management practices, improved access to funding and capital resources, and building communication and networking opportunities between programs and within communities. To better meet these needs, national associations must provide more continuing education, workshops and trainings, and develop curriculum and educational resources for local programs. The conclusions confirmed that programs must be structured and maintained using high professional standards in accordance with national association guidelines to offer quality services. A logic model was developed based on findings to assist programs in creating this professional framework. By doing so, program directors and national associations can continue to create and expand impactful programs for all populations.Item Perceptions of the Montana land grant system held by legislators and faculty(Montana State University - Bozeman, College of Agriculture, 2004) Duffey, Lisa Marie; Chairperson, Graduate Committee: Van Shelhamer.A survey was conducted to determine the perceptions of the agricultural components of the Montana land grant system (College of Agriculture (COA)/Agricultural Experiment Station (AES) and Extension Service (ES)) held by Montana legislators and faculty working in the system. Surveys were mailed to 150 legislators (85 returned) and 198 faculty members (85 returned). Responses were analyzed using SPSS 12.0. Results found that legislators and faculty preferred an administrative structure with one leader for all three components of the agriculture land grant system. Overall, both populations agreed with the nine assumptions defined by the Montana land grant system leadership that served as the foundation for the strategic plans. There was agreement between the two groups with the stated goals of COA/AES and ES. A large number of "Don't Know" responses by legislators indicated a need for improved communication with them about the goals of the land grant system. Both populations identified high levels of success in offering quality scholarly activity, conducting high quality research, and developing the confidence, competence, and character of the state's youth. Significant differences in perceptions of success were found between the two groups for goals such as being accountable to the state's citizens, strengthening Montana's families and communities, and helping people understand stewardship. Priorities identified by the respondents for 2010 included funding for COA, crops and economics for AES, and communication and staffing for ES. Personal contacts and agricultural publications were the primary sources of information about agricultural issues for faculty, while legislators turned to daily newspapers and agricultural publications. During the legislative session, legislators look to agricultural lobbyists, other legislators, and constituents for information about agricultural issues. Results indicate a breakdown in communication between the land grant system and Montana legislators and, in some cases, faculty employees of the system that needs to be addressed to ensure the successful future of the Montana land grant system and Montana agriculture. Changes to the form and function of the land grant system and its relationship with the Legislature are recommended to address the needs of Montana agriculture and Montana's citizens