Connection and Belonging Building Blocks: Signals and Strategies for Student Success
Presentation Type
30-Minute Presentations
Presentation Abstract (250 word max.)
Many students find college to be an alienating and uninviting space where they do not belong, or they may create an isolated environment for themselves. Imposter syndrome, shame, and other cultural, societal, and socio-economical cues make it difficult for some students to seek help and persist (Felton & Lambert, 2020). However, faculty can implement simple but powerful methods to engage students and foster belonging, ultimately leading to student success. This presentation will explore barriers to connection and ask attendees to contemplate what signals they are sending to students. The presentation will also share connection and belonging “building blocks,” strategies and signals that are easy for instructors to implement and build upon to aid in student success. These building blocks form three levels of connection—to peers and classmates, to the instructor/course, and to the university as a whole. Specific examples for each level of building block will be provided for both online and face-to-face classes. The presentation will conclude with attendees brainstorming building blocks to utilize in their own classrooms and at their own institutions.