Date Approved

2010

Degree Type

Open Access Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department or School

Leadership and Counseling

Committee Member

Eboni Zamani-Gallaher, Ph.D Chair

Committee Member

Dr. Jay R. Cooper, Ph.D

Committee Member

Dr. Pat Oldt, Ph.D.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of involvement in student organizations as it relates to perceptions of campus climate. The researcher conducted a crosssectional, ex-post facto secondary data analysis of a 2005 institutional survey on diversity at Great Falls State University. The researcher utilized a Chi Square Test for Independence, as well as a Forward Thinking Logistic Regression Model to analyze the data. Although the main emphasis of the research was student involvement in student organizations, the researcher also analyzed data pertaining to background demographics and campus climate. The data results demonstrated differences in perception in demographics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, ability, religious beliefs, and political views. The researcher also found a relationship between campus climate and perception.

The findings of this study enhance the body of knowledge in the areas of student involvement, student development, and campus climate. Although limited to one campus, this study gives institutions a better understanding of involvement, student backgrounds, and campus climate as they relate to student perceptions of institutional commitment to diversity.

Comments

Additional committee member: Dr. Ron Williamson, Ed.D.

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