Donald N. Roberson, Jr. (Czech Republic): “In class I try to expose the students to the different philosophy of recreation and leisure”

An Associate Professor at Palacky University in Olomouc (Czech Republic), Donald N. Roberson, Jr. is a WLO member who is passionate about teaching and fostering critical reflection on leisure in the classroom. He just renewed his WLO membership and we asked him a few question for you to know a bit more about your fellow WLO member.

In one sentence: What does leisure mean to you?

Leisure is free time when I have a choice of activities that are meaningful for me to be involved with.

What leisure projects, research and/or activities are you involved in?

I enjoy research in the broad area of learning in free time or leisure. Whether it is travel, physical activity, or attending a seminar – how does this free time/leisure activity impact you.

How do you promote the development of leisure and leisure studies at your University?

I offer a class in recreation and leisure. Within this class I try to expose the students to the different philosophy of recreation and leisure.

Why did you decide to become a member (and renew membership) of WLO?

I have always been attracted to the ideals of WLO and wanted to renew the membership.

What kind of synergies would you like to keep on developing through your WLO membership?

I would offer a perspective that one can find in the papers that I have written: the importance of free time in everyone’s life.