معرفی
Dr. Kelly Goonan is an Assistant Professor of Outdoor Recreation and Program Coordinator of Outdoor Recreation in Parks and Tourism (ORPT) at Southern Utah University. She teaches courses such as Recreation Ecology, Outdoor Education, and Behavioral Aspects of Outdoor Recreation. Her research focuses on outdoor recreation management in parks and protected areas, blending ecological and social science perspectives. She emphasizes experiential learning, particularly through programs like Semester in the Parks, where students engage with national landscapes like Bryce Canyon National Park. Goonan is passionate about fostering student curiosity and helping them overcome academic barriers, as evidenced by her mentorship of a student who rediscovered their passion for learning at SUU. She views her role as combining education theory with practical skills, enabling students to address real-world resource management challenges.
- Teaching Highlights: Courses include ORPT 4030 Interdisciplinary Outdoor Education, ORPT 4500 Recreation Ecology, and Semester in the Parks.
- Research Emphasis: Balancing resource protection and visitor access, recreation social science, and experiential education.
- Key Achievement: Guided a struggling student to academic success and involvement in research and internships.
Her hybrid expertise as a recreation ecologist and social scientist drives her commitment to hands-on learning and community partnerships. She believes SUU’s proximity to national parks provides unparalleled opportunities for immersive education.
