Advancing the Use of Ecological Systems Theory in College Student Research: The Ecological Systems Interview Tool

Abstract

Understanding students' relationships with their multiple home, community, and educational environments provides a more holistic understanding of students and recognizes that many spheres of influence shape their college experiences, development, and outcomes. Ecological Systems Theory (EST) directs higher education researchers and practitioners to examine students in their educational ecosystems. Many in higher education appreciate the comprehensive and integrated approach of EST as a way to more fully understand students' college experiences (Renn, 2003; Renn & Arnold, 2003). However, the complexity of implementing EST has limited its use, and there are few effective tools for gathering this kind of information. In this research brief, the authors share a qualitative interview protocol they designed to facilitate application of EST to understand students' ecological systems and their interactions with those systems.