Graduate Student Perceptions of College of Education Culture and Climate

Abstract

This study queried graduate student perceptions of, and experiences with harassment and discrimination in a college of education (COE). The study employed inclusive sampling, targeting all graduate students enrolled in COE classes from fall 2000 to summer 2006. One hundred and ninety-three surveys were completed and returned (12% response rate). While findings revealed relatively low incidences of harassment (26 incidents or 13.5%) and discrimination (27 incidents or 14%) within the COE; with oral remarks, in terms of insensitive or disparaging comments, perpetrated by faculty and students, within COE classrooms, the most frequent form of harassment/discrimination observed and/or experienced; this study contributes yet another example of data-driven evidence regarding the ongoing need in higher education settings for organizations and individuals to act with intentionality and purpose to ameliorate persistent harassment and discrimination.