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Students' Sense of Belonging in Online Classes: Does Age Matter?

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  • Jessica Decker

    (University of La Verne, La Verne, CA, USA)

  • Valerie Beltran

    (University of La Verne, La Verne, CA, USA)

Abstract

This study explored graduate students' perceptions of their sense of belonging in online classes, their comfort in participating in online discussions, and their technology skills. Differences in these areas among three different age groups were studied. Data were gathered via an online survey. The results of the data analysis showed that students, regardless of age, felt a sense of belonging and felt comfortable communicating in the online environment. The data also revealed that older students reported feeling more comfortable interacting with their classmates and disagreeing with their classmates while still maintaining trust than their younger counterparts. Such findings inform online educators in designing classes that meet the needs of all learners.

Suggested Citation

  • Jessica Decker & Valerie Beltran, 2016. "Students' Sense of Belonging in Online Classes: Does Age Matter?," International Journal of Online Pedagogy and Course Design (IJOPCD), IGI Global, vol. 6(3), pages 14-25, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:igg:jopcd0:v:6:y:2016:i:3:p:14-25
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