Do students and institutions share the same values? Exploring student perspectives at Montclair State University
Presentation Type
Abstract
Faculty Advisor
Elyse Postlewaite
Access Type
Event
Start Date
25-4-2025 9:00 AM
End Date
25-4-2025 9:59 AM
Description
Character alignment between students and their institution can enhance engagement, belonging, and ethical decision-making (Domingo et al., 2025). This study examines how Montclair students perceive the importance of character values prioritized by their university. The study draws on data collected in Fall 2024 from Montclair State University (Montclair) undergraduate students. From a list of 14 values drawn from Montclair’s mission statement, core values, and SEEDs curriculum, students were asked how much they aligned with Montclair’s character values. From survey data, students rated the personal importance of Montclair’s character values, with the highest-rated values being Respect (67% extremely important), Self-Discovery and Self-Care (62% extremely important), and Compassion (61% extremely important). Other highly rated values included Social Justice and Equity (58%) and Ethical Action (51%). Qualitative data reveals that these values were shaped through developmental pathways, including family, life at Montclair, peers, and key past experiences (i.e., transferring colleges). Student-driven initiatives, such as clubs, are additionally formative opportunities for which students practice these values. These findings indicate strong student alignment with Montclair’s institutional character values, particularly in areas of personal development and ethical conduct. These findings suggest that students at Montclair strongly align with the institution’s values. The emphasis on personal growth and ethical action highlights the importance of fostering an environment that supports students’ moral and character development. Understanding these alignments can help institutions like Montclair refine their character education initiatives and ensure that they continue to support student development in ways that resonate with student values and experiences.
Do students and institutions share the same values? Exploring student perspectives at Montclair State University
Character alignment between students and their institution can enhance engagement, belonging, and ethical decision-making (Domingo et al., 2025). This study examines how Montclair students perceive the importance of character values prioritized by their university. The study draws on data collected in Fall 2024 from Montclair State University (Montclair) undergraduate students. From a list of 14 values drawn from Montclair’s mission statement, core values, and SEEDs curriculum, students were asked how much they aligned with Montclair’s character values. From survey data, students rated the personal importance of Montclair’s character values, with the highest-rated values being Respect (67% extremely important), Self-Discovery and Self-Care (62% extremely important), and Compassion (61% extremely important). Other highly rated values included Social Justice and Equity (58%) and Ethical Action (51%). Qualitative data reveals that these values were shaped through developmental pathways, including family, life at Montclair, peers, and key past experiences (i.e., transferring colleges). Student-driven initiatives, such as clubs, are additionally formative opportunities for which students practice these values. These findings indicate strong student alignment with Montclair’s institutional character values, particularly in areas of personal development and ethical conduct. These findings suggest that students at Montclair strongly align with the institution’s values. The emphasis on personal growth and ethical action highlights the importance of fostering an environment that supports students’ moral and character development. Understanding these alignments can help institutions like Montclair refine their character education initiatives and ensure that they continue to support student development in ways that resonate with student values and experiences.
Comments
Poster presentation at the 2025 Student Research Symposium.