Perceptions of College Students on Campus Climate for LGBTQ Students at a Native Hawaii College

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 4:55 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Developing and Navigating Identity in Multicultural Educational Contexts (Table 9)

Abstract

The population of individuals in the U.S. identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) is steadily increasing, paralleled by a rise in discriminatory experiences such as harassment and derogatory remarks. In this quantitative research, data analysis aimed to investigate students' perception of the campus climate (dependent variable), considering the independent variables of gender identity and sexual orientation. The findings of this research revealed the student perceptions of campus climate of LGBT students and their experiences on campus. By understanding these perceptions, administrators may identify weaknesses in existing policies and receive suggestions to enhance support for LGBTQ students. Additionally, the study's findings may offer educational stakeholders’ valuable insights into students' perceptions, potentially influencing their persistence and academic achievements.

Authors

• Sylvia Carter, Florida Gulf Coast University

• Hasan Aydin, Florida Gulf Coast University

• Shahid Rasool, Florida Gulf Coast University