Author: Bonnie

This China-based study concludes that ethnic college students’ online learning emotional participation differs significantly from that of Han students, particularly in their sense of belonging. The study outlines a theoretical model of online learning emotional participation with four dimensions: learning interest, self-efficacy, self-worth, and sense of belonging. Analysis of survey data revealed structural and quantitative…

The focus of this paper is on sense of belonging’s relationship to the conceptualization of ‘grit’ in the e-learning portal environment. The study found that a sense of belonging positively impacts usage, which in turn positively impacts performance. However, grit – as framed by the study – was found not to moderate the relationship between…

The study found that the shift to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic had a differential impact on students based on their demographics. Sophomore students reported the greatest decrease in motivation and satisfaction with their performance. Female students experienced lower motivation and a diminished sense of belonging in the course and STEM fields. Black/African students…

This paper builds on the premise that fostering a sense of belonging is crucial for online learners, as it enhances their enjoyment, reduces anxiety, and decreases attrition rates. However, it notes that existing guidance on supporting student communities tends to focus on traditional, full-time, and younger students, often neglecting or invisibilizing older, globally dispersed, time-constrained…

A sense of belonging (SoB) is crucial for student success in campus-based and online learning, as it is linked to improved academic performance, higher learner satisfaction, and reduced attrition rates. This study explores how online tutors can nurture learners’ SoB, using an adapted version of the Community of Inquiry framework (CoIF) that focuses on three…

The study explored how a relational micro-intervention focused on civil, respectful conversation across difference in a digital space might influence digital media literacy, sense of belonging, and level of curiosity among college students. Using a phenomenological approach, the researcher found that the semi-structured micro-intervention enabled students to recognize the value of story sharing in navigating…

Mature adult students in higher education exhibit higher levels of academic self-efficacy and lower levels of test anxiety compared to traditional-age students. However, they report significantly lower levels of sense of belonging, which is concerning given the link between sense of belonging, persistence in higher education, and well-being. The study highlights the need to further…

The research highlights the importance of student retention and progression in higher education, particularly within the distance learning sector. The research outlines key factors that contribute to student success, including expectations, support, feedback, and involvement. While previous studies have focused on reasons for student dropout, this small-scale qualitative project at the Open University UK examines…