Knowledge and Implementation of a Character Framework in Higher Education

• In Event: Bridging Moral, Emotional, and Character Education in Diverse Educational Settings

Abstract

This study, grounded in Relational Developmental Systems meta-theory, explores how a college-wide character framework is understood and implemented by faculty and staff in higher education. The multi-method study draws on three waves of survey data and preliminary interview findings collected over a three-year period. The survey results reveal a shift from conceptual to applied, values-based understandings of the framework. Early interview data suggest that meaningful implementation is strongly tied to levels of understanding. Together, these findings highlight the importance of supporting interpretation and internalization to bridge the theory-practice gap and inform the design of effective faculty and leadership development initiatives.

Authors

• Luisa Engeldinger, Montclair State University

• Anglin Thevaraja, Montclair State University

• Alexis Nager, Montclair State University

• Elyse L. Postlewaite, Montclair State University

• Nicole Sochaczevski, American Institutes for Research

• Elaine Les, Montclair State University

• Megan K. Hennessy, Arizona State University

• Cristy Guleserian, Arizona State University

• Miriam Linver, Montclair State University

• Jennifer Brown Urban, Montclair State University