Thesis (Ed.D., Interdisciplinary Studies)--University of Idaho, June 2014 | The following studies address self-efficacy in two different settings. Study one addresses the use of adventure programs and its effect on the self-efficacy of its participants. Self-efficacy and adventure programs have been the focus of numerous studies. However, one area lacking in research is the study of adventure programs effect on self-efficacy within the university setting with regards to business students. The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to assess the effect of a selected adventure program on self-efficacy in adult learners to meet the challenge of the integrated business core at a private institution located in the Northwest. Results showed a significant difference was found by time on business students' general self-efficacy scores who participated in an adventure program. Results also showed a significant difference was found with the interaction of time on business students' scores regarding their personal ability to set-up a company organization who participated in an adventure program. However, results did not show increase in one's ability in selecting a business product, overcoming failure, or having a successful business. Study two, addressed general self-efficacy of students in three university programs, Family & Consumer Sciences Education, Health Sciences, and Recreation Management. The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine general self-efficacy, and the relationship between student perceptions of professional preparation and student reported experiential leaning opportunities. It was found the general self-efficacy of these students to be quite high. A significant moderately strong positive relationship was also found between student perception's about their program preparation and student reported experiential learning opportunities.
