Programming for Sport Development and Community Action

This unit provides an overview of recreation program planning, development and implementation. It seeks to encourage and support the development of a personal programming philosophy based on an appreciation of the scope of recreation programming and recreation benefits. Recreation programs are one of the key mechanisms for consumers to experience a variety of recreation services. The unit aims to provide students with the knowledge and information to develop, plan, document and deliver recreation programs to different client groups.



The Programming theory incorporates significant principles of the Social Psychology of Leisure. These include: the need for individuals to engage in leisure for their own sense of challenge, achievement and social connection. It also considers the conceptual analysis of Flow theory in program engagement, and the benefits this provides for an individuals’ sense of who they are, skills, and wellbeing.


This unit is an essential second-year unit that sets the framework for recreation professionals to gain the skills to organise and deliver recreation services.