Dissertation
A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Basic Needs Staff Perspectives on Service Provision at Public Universities in Washington State
Washington State University
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
12/2024
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7273/000007193
Abstract
Addressing the unmet basic needs of college students is a critical issue that can significantly influence retention and graduation rates. This study explored the experiences and perceptions of staff who implement basic needs services for college students at public higher education institutions in Washington State. It also investigated the range of services offered, how campuses utilize data, and the perceived training needs of staff. Using a convergent, mixed-methods approach, this research included in-depth interviews and a survey to collect qualitative and quantitative data. A qualitative description approach was applied to interview data and open-ended questions on the survey. Descriptive statistics were used to quantitatively assess the breadth of services offered, alongside content analysis of interview data to gain deeper insights into how these services function on campus. Food supports were the most offered services for unmet basic needs, with 100% of surveyed institutions offering a food pantry. The Social Determinants of Health theory provided a lens for understanding how colleges address basic needs to support students. Findings suggest that asking students about social and parenting supports at intake may help staff to address student needs holistically. The qualitative findings offer themes into the challenges and successes of implementing these services, including helping students navigate basic needs services on campus, staff expertise and capacity, providing a student-centered approach, and addressing institutional and policy barriers.
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Details
- Title
- A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Basic Needs Staff Perspectives on Service Provision at Public Universities in Washington State
- Creators
- Tricia M. Hughes
- Contributors
- Michael Cleveland (Chair)Michael McDonell (Committee Member)Denise Smart (Committee Member)Sislena Ledbetter (Committee Member)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Department of Human Development
- Theses and Dissertations
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University
- Number of pages
- 148
- Identifiers
- 99901195338901842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Dissertation