Survey of our students’ perception of inclusiveness

Starting steps towards a more inclusive learning environment

A survey of our students was held in late 2022, the main question of which was: To what extent do students perceive TU Delft as an inclusive educational institution? An inclusive learning environment is an important factor in students’ well-being as well as making it more likely that they will be successful in their studies. The results from this baseline measurement can assist the Diversity and Inclusion Office in the development of its policies. Some 634 students took part in the survey – a response rate of 2.2 percent. Although the number of respondents is too low to be able to make any general conclusions, it nonetheless provides enough information for input and for deciding on the next steps regarding D&I policies at TU Delft.

Results
The general questions and the main questions on Connectedness and Authenticity were completed by 941 respondents. A total of 634 respondents completed the questionnaire in full. More than 40% of respondents feel that they belong and are able to be themselves at TU Delft. However, around 12% of those participating feel the exact opposite, or do not do so strongly. This percentage was higher among respondents who identified with a minority group. These mostly involved students who are part of the LGBTQ+ community, students from a different cultural or ethnic background, international students, and female students in predominantly male environments.
Some of the respondents reported having experienced or witnessed undesirable behaviour. This often involved gossiping, excluding others from social situations, or unfair supervision practices. Finally, many respondents are not aware of where they can report and get help in cases of discrimination or undesirable behaviour.

Recommendations
Leiden University of Applied Sciences, which conducted the study, makes a number of recommendations. In addition to holding follow-up research, they include improving the visibility of the resources available to students and structurally monitoring perceptions and approaches to inclusiveness and undesirable behaviour. The recommendations are in line with previous findings in the Inspectorate of Education report, the TU Delft System Integrity Analysis, and elsewhere. The results of this study will be incorporated into the approach to social safety at TU Delft, described in the Plan for Change.

More info?
For questions about the survey, you can also contact the Diversity and Inclusion Office by emailing diversity@tudelft.nl.