30th Annual Student Research Conference
Truly Well: Exploring How Professors Contribute to Students' Overall Wellness
Taryn K. Sohal*, Lauren E. Houk, Susan M. Caman, Olivia Simpson, and Elizabeth M. Barreca
Ms. Evonne C. Bird and Dr. Nancy Daley-Moore, Faculty Mentors
Research has identified the ways stress impacts college students physically and academically and how a healthy learning environment could mitigate the effects of stress on students. Simon Fraser University (SFU) identified the following aspects comprising healthy academic environments: positive classroom culture, civic engagement, instructor support, services and supports, real life learning, inclusivity, personal development, flexibility, social connections, and optimal learning challenges (2014). A total of nine professors from varying departments participated in an hour long qualitative interview focusing on how professors facilitate a healthy learning environment. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, inductively coded, and analyzed for themes and patterns. Preliminary results suggest professional development, life experiences, and professors' perceptions of students influence the style in which professors structure and approach their classroom. By understanding the way professors create a healthy learning environment, health educators can create educational programming in order to promote campus wellness.
Keywords: Wellness, Professors, Classroom, Student, Qualitative Research, Stress
Topic(s):Health Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 10-
Location: GEO - SUB
Time: