Awareness, Use, and Value of Student Support Programs Through the Lens of Science Students, Professors, and Staff

Abstract

Science students face specific challenges associated with their field of study. The purpose of this study was to assess science students’ use of support services and programs, identify barriers to use and group differences, determine professors’ and staff’s familiarity with programs and solicit ideas from all participants about what programming changes should be made. Survey questions were completed by 308 students and 40 staff and professors in our institution’s Faculty of Science. Students’ participation rates and professors’ and staff’s familiarity with programs ranged significantly but most services were rated as helpful by both groups. Few demographic group differences emerged in program use. Participants recommended a number of improvements to the Faculty of Science including strengthening mental health awareness and support services, fostering student engagement in science, building students’ relationships with professors and cultivating a healthy learning environment. Implications for program development in science faculties are considered.

Keywords

• higher education
• qualitative research
• science policy