Exploring the Link Between Institutional Voting Rates and Diversity Experiences

• In Event: 75.029 - Democratic Citizenship Education: Policies, Frameworks, and Multiple Platforms

Abstract

This study explores the link between higher education institutional voting rates and aggregate-level reports of student diversity experiences. Specifically, do institutions where students report more diversity experiences—such as engagement with diverse viewpoints and peers—and stronger institutional support for diverse interactions have higher voting rates? Using a sample of 493 four-year institutions, we combined data from the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement and the National Survey of Student Engagement. We found that, on average, institutions whose students reported including diverse perspectives in courses had higher voting rates, but we found a negative relationship between voting rates and student reports of having discussions with people who differ from themselves. Directions for future research and practical implications are presented.

Authors

• Inger Bergom, Tufts University

• Hyun Kyoung Ro, University of North Texas

• Jillian L. Kinzie, Indiana University

• John Zilvinskis, Binghamton University - SUNY