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ERIC Number: ED651489
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 205
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3819-7743-1
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Finding a Place for Us: Improving the Social Connectedness and Sense of Belonging for Black Students at a Predominately White Institution (PWI)
Jonathan E. Page
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, Northeastern University
This qualitative action research study aimed to examine and improve the experiences of social connectedness and sense of belonging among Black students at a predominantly white institution (PWI). Initial data collected from Cycle 1 showed that Black students faced multiple challenges on campus, primarily stemming from a perceived negative campus climate, lack of diverse representation, and lack of support, which hindered their sense of connection and belonging. In response to these findings, the researcher developed and implemented the BOND New Student Transition Program. This program, informed by Cycle 1 data, aimed to provide BIPOC students with opportunities to establish social networks, build community, and access resources and services crucial for their development and success at the institution. Facilitated over four days by the researcher and a BIPOC staff member, the BOND Program was designed to assess its effectiveness in improving participants' experiences of social connection and sense of belonging. Feedback from participants was collected and analyzed to evaluate the program's success. The study concluded that the BOND Program effectively improved Black students' experiences of connection and sense of belonging at the PWI and emphasized the necessity for PWIs to adopt intentional, deliberate, and focused approaches in developing programs, services, and initiatives that support BIPOC students, particularly Black students, in transitioning to, adjusting to, and navigating campus life successfully. The implications of this study suggest the importance of reviewing and evaluating institutional infrastructure, expanding opportunities for student belonging and connection, and enhancing student supports to aid BIPOC students in their transition and adjustment to college life. Overall, the research underscores the significance of proactive measures in creating inclusive environments and fostering a sense of belonging for all students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A