The Humanistic Duo: The Park/Recreation Professional and the Computer. (Computer-Can I Use It?).

This paper states that there are two fundamental reasons for the comparative absence of computer use for parks and recreation at the present time. These are (1) lack of clear cut cost justification and (2) reluctance on the part of recreation professionals to accept their role as managers and, consequently, to utilize modern management tools. The paper attempts to describe the most effective use of the computer and telecommunication technologies for the leisure service provider. It seeks to make the part and recreation professional recognize that the ultimate effective use of the technology will be in the hands of those professionals who combine a basic understanding of their own profession with that of the technology itself. The paper contains a primer on computers for the recreation/park professional. A section on the primary applications of computer technology to recreation and parks is followed by examples of specific application to these areas. More detailed examples are appended. (Author/DDO)