Exploring Belongingness among Online and On-Campus Students at Bemidji State University.

Presenter(s)

Kaitlyn Kaiser

Abstract or Description

Three surveys during the Fall 2023 academic semester were administered to students at Bemidji State University [BSU]. Through self-report measures, it was observed that online students (M=3.11, SD=0.74) reported the same level of belongingness as on-campus students (M=3.11, SD=0.68). This same pattern of both online and on-campus students continued in the surveys administered in October and November. However, online students (M=2.83, SD=0.90) did report lower levels of feeling like they were a part of the BSU community compared to on-campus students (M=3.02, SD=0.73). Having professors respond quickly to emails, purchasing unneeded textbooks, and enrolling at BSU due to its Minnesota location had no relationship to online students' sense of belongingness. Future research will investigate the role of factors related to online and on-campus students' belongingness. The findings will offer valuable insights for universities as to the nuanced differences in feeling a part of their communities, links to retention and academic success, and inform the development of strategies to foster a stronger sense of community among online learners. 

Mentor

Dr. Travis R. Ricks, Ph.D.