A Comparative Benchmark Analysis of Recreation Programs in Türkiye, the United States, and Canada Using a ChatGPT-Based Interview Approach

ChatGPT has established a significant position among large language models (LLMs) and has become widely utilized by both users and researchers. While the number of studies on ChatGPT's applications, particularly in fields such as education and tourism, is steadily increasing in the literature, research on its use in recreation remains notably limited. Moreover, no studies have benchmarked recreation programs against those in developed countries. Accordingly, this study aims to benchmark recreation programs in Türkiye, the United States, and Canada by comparing admission requirements, program curricula, graduate competencies, and employment conditions. Furthermore, it seeks to provide a future-oriented projection and propose a certification program tailored for Türkiye. Employing an interview technique facilitated through ChatGPT, the study’s findings highlight differences in student admissions, curricula, graduate competencies, and employment prospects across recreation programs in Türkiye, the United States, and Canada. Based on these differences, the study presents recommendations for the field of recreation in Türkiye, a ten-year projection, and a proposed certification program. The research offers both theoretical insights and practical implications.