Sense of Belonging: Outcomes from a Residential Commons Model

Abstract:This mixed methodological study examines the relationship between participation in a residential commons system and sense of belonging in the context of an elite, highly residential liberal arts institution. Students of color, students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and students who do not participate in Greek letter organizations reported a lower sense of belonging than their peers. Qualitative findings reveal that participation in a residential commons system did not positively contribute to sense of belonging, and quantitative findings reveal a negative relationship between commons participation and sense of belonging.