ERIC Number: EJ1060607
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015-Jan
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1949-6427
EISSN: N/A
Institutional Factors That Positively Impact First-Year Students' Sense of Well-Being
Harmening, Debra S.; Jacob, Stacy A.
Journal of Case Studies in Education, v7 Jan 2015
This qualitative case study conducted at a single institution in the Midwest examines how institutional context and environment impact college students' sense of well-being. Twenty-seven first-year students participated in one to two hour, in-depth interviews where they talked about their first-year experiences, their concepts of well-being, and how campus experiences positively impacted their well-being. Interviews were transcribed and narratives were coded and analyzed using Strange and Banning's (2001) model of campus environments to consider how safety, involvement, inclusion, and community positively impact well-being. Findings suggest that being involved with peers, faculty, and resident assistants; being included in a diverse community and learning from diverse others' beliefs and worldviews; and taking part in dynamic classrooms and learning experiences that build a sense of community; positively impact well-being. Half of participants also talked about how the physical beauty of campus, and use of outdoor space, also positively impacted their sense of well-being. Overall findings are key indicators of how resources could be allocated for first year initiatives as well as possible directions for future research on student well-being.
Descriptors: Qualitative Research, Case Studies, Colleges, College Freshmen, Well Being, Interviews, College Environment, Student Participation, School Safety, Inclusion, Educational Facilities Design, Urban Universities, Credibility, Interpersonal Relationship, Student Diversity, Influences
Academic and Business Research Institute. 147 Medjool Trail, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081. Tel: 904-435-4330; e-mail: editorial.staff@aabri.com; Web site: http://www.aabri.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A