Transforming the approach to higher education and quality of life research…
The purpose of this study is to identify and explore physical, psychological, social, environmental, and socioeconomic factors that help or hinder the quality of life of young women during undergraduate programs.
The study will examine these factors from your unique perspective as a female college student. As a direct result of this study, you, the participant, will determine how to address identified needs with other study participants. Actions taken will be up to you to decide at the end of this study!
My Approach
Collaborative
Research requires a partnership rather than just a top-down approach. Hearing from people’s lived experiences gives an entirely new perspective to the data collected and how it’s interpreted. I want to hear your story and see how it can contribute to improving educational approaches for emerging adults across the US.
Iterative and Flexible
This study combines the bottom-up approach of grounded theory, with photodocumentary methods to share lived experiences and inform data in an iterative process. The researcher and participants will work together to ensure a clear and accurate description of the data, and action-planning towards change and improvement.
Training in the Photovoice method
Learn how to take photos that are symbolic of your lived experiences and can be powerful data indicators.
Photovoice Method
Capturing moments and sharing your story
With a field of assignment you will work with the researcher to narrow the pictures you took, to the top 3-4 photos you find most impactful.
Taking Action
During an action-planning focus group discussion, you will discuss with other students recurring themes, identify positive and negative factors of college life, and collaborate with stakeholders on an action-plan for improvement.
What the Research is Saying
""As a social determinant of health, the way that students experience education, and their likelihood to continue forward with college, is of critical health concern."
– Rao et al., 2022
From "A Reflection on the Relationship Between Place and Health: Understanding Undergraduate Student Experiences and Priorities During the COVID-19 Pandemic"
"Quality of life expresses students’ satisfaction with their life, which influences their success in university; it depends on a number of factors, such as health, self-esteem, spirituality, money or standard of living, work, play, helpfulness, friendship, sibling relationships, learning, creativity, family, neighbourhood and community."
- Sugara et al., 2022
"Factors affecting quality of life and learning-life balance of university students in business higher education"
Get in Touch!
If you’re interested in contributing to this research, sign up below to get in touch with the researcher. Space is limited.
FAQ
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I am focusing on better understanding the quality of life (QOL) of undergraduate students, and the factors that help and hinder their success. But I would like to hear from your own voice, and not just the literature.
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Currently this dissertation study is targeting female students, ages 18-24, currently enrolled in a US-based undergraduate program.
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It is anticipated that a total of 2 months would be required from the initial training and interviews to the final action-planning focus group.
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YES! Every student participant that successfully completes the study will receive a $50 Amazon gift card following the final focus group. :)
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Space is limited as we are only taking a maximum of 12 female students for this study, but to be added to the interest list, click the “Sign up” button at the top of the page to get started.