Exploring Sense of Community for Underrepresented Populations within Construction Programs in ASC Regions 4 and 5

ABSTRACT When underrepresented and at-risk students feel like they belong, they are more likely to succeed. By measuring and monitoring sense of community, construction programs can identify opportunities for improvement and guide strategies to support the needs of all students. This study measured sense of community within five undergraduate construction programs in the U.S. Midwest. The researchers tested for differences in sense of community between demographic groups based on based on race, gender, first-generation college student status and transfer students status. Differences between groups were further investigated by considering the four elements of community. The results indicate that each school provides a unique environment in regard to community for their students. However, across the sample, lower sense of community was reported for not white and transfer students. The results indicate that within the U.S Midwest, additional efforts are necessary to strengthen community and support the needs of all students in undergraduate construction management programs.