Real Eau-topias : EDI and the Resources Students Need for Free Expression and Success at UWEC

Abstract

The purpose of this research project was to understand students’ perspectives on the values of equity, diversity, and inclusivity (EDI), and the resources that the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire has to offer. This research aims to uncover what exactly the students expect of the University regarding EDI and resources and to provide feedback to help UWEC to achieve its EDI goals. The two student researchers conducted a total of seven focus group interviews with 25 students to measure their group perspectives and collected data from both pre and post questionnaires to measure various demographics and personal opinions. Focus group participants were drawn from a variety of programs, organizations, and naturally occurring social groups from the researchers’ personal networks. In general, focus groups discussed EDI in terms of potential for progress: participants recognize the steps that the University is taking towards its goals but are critical of their actual accomplishments. Resources are talked about as supplemental services that should be provided to students who need them, rather than core aspects of higher education that everyone utilizes. These results reflect an acceptance that students have relatively small power for change and an assumption that change happens at the administrative level.