Sense of Belonging for BIPOC Nursing Students: A Participatory Action Research Study.

Abstract

Background: Educational institutions have strived to create more diverse learning environments. Despite this, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) students are often underrepresented and marginalized in these environments. Limited research exists on understanding BIPOC students' experiences of belonging in nursing education.

Method: This study employed a participatory action research approach that involved faculty and BIPOC nursing students as co-researchers. An interpretive description methodology was also used to understand the student's experiences. Data were collected via focus groups and individual interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis.

Results: Three key themes were identified during the data analysis: contributors and barriers to belonging, the impact of belonging, and coping behaviors.

Conclusion: This study's findings contribute to nursing education by highlighting strategies to promote BIPOC nursing students' sense of belonging and overall academic success. [J Nurs Educ. 2025;64(5):303-309.].