A sense of belonging was found to be another key driver for student engagement. The FIN inquiries, often through their innovative use of video, documented the value that students have for belonging. The following project provide a good case in point:
College of the Siskiyous – Athletes were the subject of this team’s inquiry. This team found that athletes were more motivated to work hard when instructors cared for them personally; they benefited from clear, step-by-step instructions, including on how to work at home; they valued being included as team members, to the point of feeling needed; and they were more likely to disclose if they felt safe and when the interviewer was authentic and willing to disclose about his or her own struggles.
