Community-Engaged-Scholarship Labs

Scholars from multiple academic and diverse disciplines conduct collaborative research projects, interventions, and programs with a particular emphasis on enhancing the quality of life of underserved communities. Scholarly investigations and intervention programs are conducted in schools, community agencies, and neighborhoods in Austin, Comal, Guadalupe, Hays, Bexar counties. The Community Engaged Scholarship Lab (CESL) provides the researchers a physical space to analyze and interpret data, conduct individual or focus group interviews, lead training programs and plan research projects.

Some of the current CESL research includes investigations in; 1) social and psychomotor interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder, 2) therapeutic recreation modalities (e.g., adaptive yoga) for individuals with disabilities, 3) outdoor education programs and activities (e.g., mountain biking, kayaking, etc.) intended to enhance coping skills, motivation, perceived competence and leadership 4) Recreational activities to address those youth who are “at risk” 5) examining positive youth development (e.g., as self-esteem, self-determined motivation, connection with others) through physical activity and sport and 6) investigation of factors affecting prekindergarten education with an emphasis on early literacy, nutrition, and fine and gross motor skill development.