Indigenous and non-Indigenous post-secondary Students

Why are we doing this research?

Despite stark differences in PS (Post-Secondary) completion rates among Indigenous peoples at the national level for decades, and, despite explicit calls for change in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report (2015) to improve rates and reduce socioeconomic status (SES) gaps (e.g., Call to Action #7), PS program completion rates for Indigenous PS students remain lower than for non-Indigenous/white PS students. As such, it is important that we clarify the reasons for low PS completion among Indigenous PS students. 

What is this research project examining? 

Our research team and community partner (Membertou First Nation) proposed that disparities in health and social outcomes (e.g., psychological distress, discrimination) may have notable impacts on academic achievement. This study is examining if Indigenous and white PS students have differences in key health and social wellness areas.  In partnership with Membertou First Nation, we developed a cross-sectional survey to examine health (e.g., psychological distress, COVID–19 anxiety, academic well–being) and social (e.g., discrimination, number of life stressors, social connectedness) factors that have been previously associated with overall health and educational outcomes among PS students.