Influences of Rurality on Sense of Belonging Development at a Flagship University

• In Event: Rurality and Education

Abstract

This qualitative study examines how students studying at a flagship university develop a sense of belonging. Guided by Bronfrenbrenner’s Bioecological Systems Model (1977; Bronfenbrenner & Morris, 2006), I evaluated background influences on the development of a sense of belonging of rural students in a College of Education. Using Constructivist Grounded Theory (CGT), I largely relied on interviews of students to develop an emerging theory (Corbin & Strauss, 1998; Charmaz, 2014). Findings illustrate how a rural background influences development at university. Noticing hospitality differences negatively impacted rural students’ experiences, but a sense of agency emerged. The findings indicate an importance to understand the unique challenges faced and supports needed by rural students.

Author

• Stephanie L Woods, Columbia College