An Examination of Well-Being and Retention during the Transition of Learning Modality in a University Academic Department

Amy M. Bardwell; Chang Su-Russell

doi:10.20343/teachlearninqu.13.36

Authors

Amy M. Bardwell Illinois State University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4394-1866
Chang Su-Russell Illinois State University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3083-1967

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20343/teachlearninqu.13.36

Keywords:

transition back to in-person learning, college students’ retention, mental health, diversity and equity, COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic had an immediate impact and a long-lasting toll on the well-being of students and faculty, influencing their performance and affecting retention rates on college campuses. This study focused on the entire academic department, rather than an individual faculty member or peer, as the department serves as the immediate learning environment, potentially fostering diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion (DEBI). The department is an academic home where students experience autonomy, relatedness, and competence. A total of 93 department members participated in a survey that elicited their perspectives and experiences related to retention, DEBI, and basic psychological needs during the first semester transitioning back from remote to in-person learning within the pandemic context. Results revealed that while the department is inclusive, there is room for improvement. Although many students and faculty/staff reported struggling during the transition, few expressed a decision to take a break from school/work. Students who were motivated to stay in school scored higher on departmental DEBI climate and basic psychological needs than those considering a break. Implications for department- and university-level policies and programs are discussed, focusing on addressing the well-being and retention of students and faculty/staff.

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Author Biographies

Amy M. Bardwell, Illinois State University

Amy M. Bardwell, PhD (USA) is an associate professor in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at Illinois State University. Her research focuses on consumer behavior in the food service industry. She also explores student belongingness in the college setting.

Chang Su-Russell, Illinois State University

Chang Su-Russell, PhD (USA) CFLE, is an associate professor in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at Illinois State University. Her research focuses on parents’ decision-making in childbearing and childrearing and cultivating civically engaged college students.

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