Predicting Chinese Canadian's visitation to local and distant parks.

摘要

This thesis examined factors affecting Chinese Canadians' visitation to local parks (parks within walking distance or a short drive) and distant parks (parks that required an overnight stay to enjoy). These factors included environment identity, leisure attitudes, attitudes towards parks, level of acculturation and marginality. It was anticipated that these factors would positively predict Chinese Canadians' visitation to parks.;Respondents reported high levels of environmental identity, positive attitudes towards parks, and positive attitudes towards leisure, as well as moderate levels of acculturation. Respondents had higher household incomes and education levels (used as an indicator of marginality) than the general Chinese Canadian population. Results from multiple regression analysis revealed that only environmental identity positively predicted visits to local and distant parks in the last 12 months.;Convenience sampling of residents of three cities, Vancouver, Toronto and Edmonton, was conducted. A self-completed questionnaire was used to collect data from Chinese Canadians. The average response rate was 42%; 624 questionnaires were input into the data file: 200 from Edmonton, 205 from Toronto, and 219 from Vancouver. Passive activities (i.e., resting, sightseeing and walking) characterized respondents' participation in park-based activities. Lack of time was the most frequently reported constraint to visiting parks. Respondents' suggestions for improving the park visitor experience included better and more accessible washrooms and parking lots, more entertainment facilities and more facilities for children.