| This study investigated the perceptions of online doctoral students' sense of belonging, as well as their perceptions and intent to use social network sites to increase their sense of belonging. The theoretical framework drew upon research on socialization, persistence, and the future of doctoral studies. Research showed the importance of socialization in creating a sense of belonging in on-ground doctoral students; however, research into creating a sense of belonging in online doctoral students is lacking. The research questions for this study examined students' perceptions of social network sites and the value of these sites in increasing students' sense of belonging toward the university, college, department, and class. Additional data were gathered on social network site usage. This study used a sequential explanatory design. An online descriptive survey provided data on the participants' sense of belonging and social network preferences and usage. The survey was followed by phenomenological interviews to learn about the online experience, value of a social network, and the perceived impact of an integrated social network site. Quantitative data were analyzed using chi-square, goodness of fit, t-test, and z-test. Interview data were axial coded to identify the themes. The results indicated that the online students have a lower sense of belonging and less faculty-student and student-student interaction than on-ground doctoral students. Results also indicated that 80% of the online students were already using social networks and would like to see academic activity feed into a social network as a way to increase their sense of belonging. This research is significant for educators and administrators who desire to find ways to increase the sense of belonging among students as a way to increase retention. |
