Roger A. Rennekamp, Ph.D. Department Head and State 4-H Program Leader Youth Development Education Oregon State University Unleashing the Scholar In You

Characteristics of a Profession Operates from a body of knowledge, a theory of action, and a repertoire of behaviors and skills. Professionals not only know what to do but why it is done. Specialized education is acquired through an extensive preparation program. Professionals have significant autonomy regarding the how that repertoire of behaviors and skills are applied across various contexts. High level of public trust, frequently operating for the public good.

Characteristics of a Profession Distinguished by an ethical code in its relationships with clients, colleagues, and the public. Delivery of a unique, specialized service, dealing with problems on an intellectual plane of operation. Professionals have an affiliation with a field of study which is taught and researched at the college or university level. Fields are characterized by journals, professional associations, and academic departments.

Stages of Professional Maturity Know the Field (being aware of the major theories, approaches, and scholars) Apply the Field (applying the best practices that stem from inquiry and understanding) Grow the Field (contributing to the knowledge base that undergirds a field) Represent the Field (promoting the advancement of the field)

Logic Models and Scholarship Logic should represent an underlying theory for how a program should operate. Linkages between inputs, outputs and outcomes can be based on research, intuition, experience, and at times, untested assumptions. As these linkages are confirmed, the theory becomes increasingly sound and mature.

Understanding Scholarship Some professionals have a special obligation to grow and expand the field. Often, scholarship is viewed as an add on; something that takes us away from our primary duties. Scholarship is the process by which we grow the field. Scholarship results from innovations which are validated and communicated.

Understanding Scholarship Innovation involves the creation, integration or application of knowledge which improves the practice of youth development. Innovations may be validated through a process of peer referee, peer review, or peer adoption. Validated innovations are frequently communicated through presentations at state, regional or national meetings of youth development professionals.

Understanding Scholarship Ideally, the content of presentations is recorded in printed proceedings of these meetings. Scholarly work is also communicated through periodicals, journals, Extension publications, or other printed products. Successful pursuit of competitive grants is also considered scholarly activity. Work on steering committees, funding agency panels, and editorships where the outcome is a fundamental change in the field’s direction is also considered scholarship.