The study evaluates the Institutional Belonging in Higher Education Scale – Inside the Classroom (IBHES-I) among social work students (N = 372). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed validity, showing non-inclusive practices negatively impact belonging. Regression analysis highlights faculty diversity and course content as key factors. IBHES-I aids evaluating universities’ IDEA=B efforts.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
Understand the critical role of institutional belonging in student success and retention, particularly in social work education.
Gain insight into new measurement tools for assessing belonging, with a focus on the validated IBHES-I scale.
Develop strategies to enhance IDEA=B initiatives within their own institutions, drawing on research-driven recommendations.
