Engaged scholarship: Bok's undergraduate competency framework and the Camp Adventureᵀᴹ Child and Youth Services programme

This study utilizes Bok's framework of core competencies for undergraduate education to investigate the changes of college and university students participating in the Camp AdventureTM Child and Youth Services (CACYS) programme. Communication, critical thinking, character development, citizenship, diversity, global understanding, widening of interests, and career and vocational development were the eight core competencies included in the study. Five hundred and seventeen individuals from 14 CACYS staff development sites were invited to participate in a three-phase design wherein data was collected at baseline, after the completion of the staff development course, and at the conclusion of one's field experience. The questionnaire consisted of 56 items measured on a 7-point Likert-type scale. Two hundred and seven individuals completed all three phases. Results indicate significant growth in all of participants’ core competencies from the baseline to the completion of the CACYS programme. Findings suggest that core competencies can be enhanced through an experiential service-learning programme. The study offers a framework for assessing outcomes and a model for increasing accountability in institutions of higher learning. Further, the study provides a conceptual model that demonstrates service-learning can be incorporated integrating academic content, experiential learning and reflection in order to support greater community engagement. Copyright © 2015 World Leisure Organisation.