Cheng-Chia "Brian" Chen
Dr. Cheng-Chia "Brian" Chen, Associate Professor of Public Health in the College of Health, Science and Technology, will conduct a study to explore factors that influence students' sense of belonging and to identify the existing gaps and challenges in advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ). The importance of satisfying students' need for belonging lies in its potential to improve student retention and graduation rates. However, since a "one-size-fits-all" approach would not be effective, instruments used to measure belonging will need to be customized and evaluated to suit the particular context of interest. He will use a multidimensional research approach that integrates both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, along with relevant conceptual frameworks and evidence-based approaches. The findings might serve as a foundation for subsequent research and action plans along with data-driven strategies to enhance students' sense of belonging and overall well-being.