Date of Award

Fall 2022

Document Type

Open Access Dissertation

Department

Educational Studies

First Advisor

Suha Tamim

Abstract

Increased representation of minority groups is imperative for professions like nursing and education. With the growing rate of minority racial and ethnic groups within the United States, there should be corresponding changes within these professions, however there is not. This action research study seeks to explore the factors that affect persistence in academically at-risk minority nursing students at a small Midwestern Christian University. The main research question for this study asks, “What factors do at-risk minority nursing students identify as affecting their ability to persist in our nursing program?” The use of Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Social Ecological Model and Critical Theory were the theoretical frameworks guiding this study. Through the use of semi-structured interviews with the minority students and their academic coach, three prominent themes emerged: Issues Surrounding Race, Family/Relationships, and Encounters with and Values of Healthcare. Since action research was used throughout this study, this iteration of the action research cycle is considered investigational. Based on the findings from this study, the next cycle of action research should focus on creating stronger peer relationships and addressing the needs of English Language Learners (ELL).

Rights

© 2022, Christina L.K. Eaton

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