This program is specifically designed and scheduled for those working in an activity program and who are seeking certification or training as an Activity Director. The management program consists of 4 credits of online curriculum and practicum experience.  The program is taught online over two semesters (2 credits each semester) using Desire2Learn online course management system.

Activity management is the process of directing and leading people and other resources to help deliver quality leisure and therapeutic activity services to the senior population. An activity manager must have a good understanding of the day to day challenges that is involved in running an activity program. Having a solid background in the technical knowledge involved with managing a department and supervising people is critical. Activity professional learn these skills through training, education and work experience. This Activity Management Program will teach Activity Directors the management skills needed to effectively run a department. Students enrolled in this course should have basic knowledge in the following areas; regulatory compliance, programming and calendar development, standards of practice, aging issues, care planning, documentation, and various intervention techniques.

Upon successful completion of the Activity Management Program, the participant will be awarded a 4 credit award of completion certificate. Completion of the Basic Activity Program prior to enrolling in the management program is helpful but not necessary.  However, the Basic Activity Program is a pre-requisite and required for those professionals with less than two years activity experience.

Approved by the National Certification Council for Activity Professionals (NCCAP #25125-08-NT) for online delivery, this program meets the education standards of the modular education program, part two.  Certification as an Activity Director, Track 4, requires completion of the Basic and Management programs, and additional college credits, work experience and continuing education..

Unit 1 Introduction to Activity Management

• Program responsibilities
• Professionalism
• Identify role as a manager
• Leadership skills
• Community involvement and resources
• Cultural Diversity

Unit 2 Activity Department Managment

• Personnel managment
• Time and space management
• Department record keeping and management
• Quality assurance

Unit 3 Communication Skills for Activity Managers

• Communication skills for leadership
• Problem solving
• Inservices, training, and education
• Teamwork

Unit 4 Volunteer Management

• Recruiting volunteers
• Training and orientation of volunteers
• Recognition of volunteers

"Leadership in Leisure" by Debra Jordan
"Essentials for the Activity Professional" by Susan Lanza
"Who Moved My Cheese" by Spencer Johnson
"One Minute Manager" by Kenneth Blanchard

Basic Computer Skills:
Students are expected to have basic keyboarding skill, use Microsoft Word, set up and manage files, saving and retrieving documents, use proper formatting and page set up for word documents, good writing communication skills such as spelling, grammar and sentence structure.

Internet Basics:
High speed internet is preferred, using an internet browser, accessing websites, and searching the Web for resources. Students must have access to a computer at various times throughout the day and week. All registered students at Ridgewater College will have an email account and it the official means of communication between the student, college, and instructor.

Interaction:
Online learning utilizes threaded discussions, chat rooms, and sending e-mail. Students will need to become familiar with and use these tools.

Netiquette:
Netiquette is knowing what is appropriate in the interaction and communication with your peers and instructor. Professionalism is required.

Time Management:
Being able to manage your time well and get assignments in on time is an important element for success. Setting aside uninterrupted time each week to work on assignments, do websearches, community research, participate in the discussions and other course requirements will be essential.

Feedback:
Providing your peers with perceptive, constructive and fair feedback. This is an online community of learners in which all of us should feel comfortable to share and learn.

Committment:
Online learning is not the same as learning in a traditional classroom. Students need to be committed to the online style of learning, be motivated to try new things and be a self-learner, and importantly a self-starter.