Exploring the Lived Experience of the Contemporary College Student Through Photo Elicitation. Issue 1 (3rd July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Legg, Eric; McWilliams, Claire
• Is Part Of: Schole. Volume 36:Issue 1/2(2021)
• Page Start: 59
• Page End: 74
• Publication Date: 2021-07-03
• Subjects: College student -- stress relief -- commuting -- service learning -- photo elicitation; Leisure -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- United States -- Periodicals; Recreation -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- United States -- Periodicals; Leisure -- Study and teaching (Higher); Recreation -- Study and teaching (Higher); United States; Periodicals; 790.0711
• DOI: 10.1080/1937156X.2020.1760750
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1937-156X

Abstract

Abstract: This research uses photo elicitation to examine the lived experience of the contemporary college student. Twenty-one participants took photographs of their college experience for a week, selected the five pictures that best represented their college experience, and then participated in a semi-structured interview to discuss the pictures. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for themes. Findings suggest campus places, class and class activities, commuting, leisure activities, study space, and work as the most salient spaces (places and activities) of the contemporary college student experience. We also identified a life of service and purpose, school pride, relationships, stress relief, and "typical" as the most salient meanings ascribed those experiences. Findings also examine in what spaces meanings occur. These findings not only provide insight into the experience of the contemporary college student, but also lead to practical implications related to commuting, stress relief, study spaces, and integrating service activities into the classroom.