Examining the Influence of Spirituality among Non-Traditional College Students: A Holistic Perspective

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Title Examining the Influence of Spirituality among Non-Traditional College Students: A Holistic Perspective
Creator Alicia Marie Emerson
Subject MEd
Description This qualitative study uses a constructivist framework and four in-depth interviews to examine how spirituality influences non-traditional female college students. It focuses on three research questions: (a) How does spirituality influence non-traditional female college students? (b) How can educators and administrators implement and foster spiritual themes in adult and higher education to maximize meaning-making and constructive learning opportunities? (c) How can I further develop my "holistic enlightenment theory" that explains the phenomenological influences that spirituality has on students-especially students who have been marginalized or who face multiple life roles? Through analysis of interviews, observations, field notes, journal entries, and material culture, the data indicates that spirituality is a coping mechanism and influential catalyst for the participants. Implications include the further exploration of unexpected themes that emerged, such as humor as a spiritual coping mechanism and technology as a catalyst for collective spirituality. Recommendations include the incorporation of a sacred space into adult and higher education curriculums, which is a safe space where students feel as if their stories and beliefs are valued, as well as the implementation of spiritual community building activities such as community service learning projects, assignments that involve storytelling, collaborative discussions, and meditation that promotes interconnectedness.
Publisher Westminster College
Date 2013-05
Type Text; Image
Language eng
Rights Management Digital copyright 2013, Westminster College. All rights Reserved.
ARK ark:/87278/s6h73pwn
Setname wc_ir
ID 1094024
Reference URL https://collections.lib.utah.edu/ark:/87278/s6h73pwn