(EDU2a) Sociology of Education in Higher Education Institutions I

This session features papers that draw on empirical, theoretical, or methodological issues in the realm of Higher Education.  Cross-listed with the Canadian Association of Sociology of Education (CASE). Tags: Education

Organizers: Cathlene Hillier, Crandall University, Maria Brisbane, University of Waterloo; Chair: Shamiga Shamy Arumuhathas, Western University

Presentations

Anika Forde, York University; Sonia Lewis, York University

Black undergraduate students experiences in navigating PSE

Using a qualitative research methodology, this study employed a Critical Race Theory and an Intersectionality theoretical framework to examine the experiences of Black undergraduate students, as they navigate post-secondary educational spaces, within a Canadian context. Data was collected from 25 Black undergraduate students between the ages of 19 and 40. The data was analyzed and coded to identify commonalities and to distinguish characteristics that enabled their success and/or challenges within the educational system. Key findings suggest that the participants encountered a complex array of factors which intersect with systemic barriers to mediate their academic outcomes.

Claudia Chaufan, York University

Appraising the decision-making process concerning Covid-19 policy in postsecondary education in Canada: A critical scoping review

We conducted a critical scoping review of COVID-19 policy responses in Canadian postsecondary education. Despite the unprecedented nature of these policies and their dramatic impact on the lives of millions of students, staff, faculty, their families, and communities, little is known about the decision-making processes leading to them. Further, the power dynamics that shapes policymaking has been insufficiently explored. Data included publicly available documents and was retrieved from university, newsletter, and legal websites. Documents were independently screened, charted, analysed, and synthesized by at least two investigators, with disagreements resolved through full team discussion. We present preliminary results of our investigation.

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Non-presenting authors: Vanessa Vashishth, Wilfrid Laurier University; Laurie Manwell, Wilfred Laurier University; Benjamin Gabbay, York University; Camila Heredia, York University; Charlotte Daniels, York University

Alan Weber, Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar; Byrad Yyelland, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar

Sociological Approaches to Understanding Privacy Concerns in Online Learning in Muslim-Majority Countries

A multi-site mixed-methods sociological study of online learning behaviors in Qatar from 2020-23 of 158 students and faculty concluded that: 1) online privacy is a pervasive and novel concern arising from videoconferencing; 2) reconfiguring the traditional Muslim home became a serious issue due to separate male / female living spaces; 3) with synchronous learning using videoconferencing, complex and unexpected student classroom behaviors arose; 4) female Muslim students expressed anxiety about proper covering (hijab) during videoconferencing; and 6) the recording of online lectures was a pedagogical concern for both faculty and students due to photography taboos related to tribal/family honor.

Shamiga Shamy Arumuhathas, Western University

Playing the Blame Game: Precarity Among Racialized International Students Amid Immigration and Housing Crises

This paper examines the impact of neoliberal policies on international students (IS) of colour in Ontario, particularly focusing on austerity measures and aggressive recruitment strategies in higher education (HE). We analyze how enforcing minimum fund requirements for IS contributes to financial instability, mental health issues, and housing and food insecurities. Our study suggests a research-informed policy agenda, advocating for cross-sectorial policy discussions, revisiting housing policy, dismantling public opinion blame games, and promoting inclusive policy responses to IS experiences. We also address the implications of intersecting social and political movements, including housing insecurity and immigration, on the racism experienced by IS in HE.

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Non-presenting authors: Rebecca Stroud, Carleton University; Alana Butler, Queen's University