Research indicates that student involvement in campus community increases achievement and engagement in all areas. However, the type of community in which students are involved is an important element in determining the experience of students. Student affairs professionals are responsible for defining what a healthy community in a higher education institution looks like and promoting a vision for the type of community desired.
In consultation with the site supervisor, select a group of 4-8 students from the field experience site as a focus group for a discussion on students’ perspectives of their institution’s community.
Use the following questions to guide the discussion:
How would you describe the environment or community at this institution?
What factors contribute to your answer?
Who is responsible for building and maintaining a healthy community?
What opportunities has the institution provided to you to positively affect community?
What are the most important contributors to a healthy community on campus?
