Taking the Temperature of Distance Learners: Does University Climate Influence Perceptions of Belonging in a Distance Education Environment?

Aim: This study aimed to gain an understanding of how students' perceptions of belonging are impacted by their observations of the cultural/racial climate and diversity and inclusion in a distance education environment.

Background: Studies have evaluated students' perceptions of belonging and racial climate in a physical environment; there is a gap in understanding those perceptions within a distance education environment.

Method: In 2019, an online survey was administered to distance learning students from four academic programs at a national university that provides education services in all 50 states.