What Types of Faculty-Student Interactions Matter for Students? Examining Relationships in a Faculty-in-Residence Program

• In Event: 31.051 - Mentoring and Student-Faculty Interactions

Abstract

This paper investigates the ways in which undergraduate students experience a recently established faculty-in-residence (FIR) program at a small public university in Southern California. Drawing on existing research on faculty-student interaction, the paper explores the kinds of interactions students are having with faculty in the context of the FIR program, and how these interactions impact students both socially and academically. The study draws on data from participant observation and interviews with 15 undergraduate students who participated in the FIR program. The paper (1) concludes that sustained, ongoing interactions between faculty and students are important for building relationships, strengthening community in the residence halls, and impacting outcomes for students, and (2) highlights practical insights on building a successful FIR program.

Authors

• Jordan Perez Fullam, California State University san bernardino

• Andrew J. Hughes, California State University - San Bernardino