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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

attitudes of seniors, gospel in class, student feedback

College

David O. McKay School of Education

Department

Counseling Psychology and Special Education

Abstract

The purpose of our study was to investigate the perspectives of fellow students towards current efforts at addressing the gospel of Jesus Christ in their departmental classes. The idea of a “BYU education,” while based in bedrock faith, is not a static concept; rather, strategies to apply our faith to daily learning moments are constantly evolving. We were interested in how other senior students perceived current efforts in “secular” classes to interface with the gospel. We asked ourselves, ‘what distinguishes positive experiences from the negative ones?’ What do other students think? Are their experiences similar to ours? A foundational assumption of our project was that students have much more to say than teachers ever hear about. Yes, as students we have plentiful opportunities to fill out “Teacher Evaluations” specific to each class and professor, but we sometimes wonder if bubbles convey our feelings well—particularly in the spiritual dimensions of a class summarized with a few vague items. Are other students thinking about how the gospel is addressed in “secular” classes? Is it even an issue for them? How often and in what ways are the gospel addressed across various departments? How often do classes pray together and how do students feel about prayer in classes outside of the religion department? What are examples of experiences where students felt comfortable or uncomfortable? From the student’s perspective are current attempts at interfacing with the gospel appropriate? Are students generally satisfied or dissatisfied with their department’s efforts and outcomes in this regard?

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