University
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SAREO
Student Assessment,
Research, and Evaluation Office
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The Cycles Survey, Spring 1995, SARIS Report No. 298
List of Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
List of Figures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Methodology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Section 1. Overall Experience at UMass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Satisfaction with the University Experience. . . . . . . . . . 5
Consideration of Withdrawing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Aspects of Satisfaction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Section 2. Academic Experience. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Satisfaction with Academic Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Knowledge Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Personal Computer Ownership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Section 3. Selected Services and Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Residential Experience and Dining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Campus Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Other Selected Services and Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Section 4. Non-Academic Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Section 5. Perceptions of Campus Social Problems . . . . . . . . . 13
Perceived Extent of Various Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Witnessed or Experienced Harassment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Section 6. Use of Selected Five-College Services . . . . . . . . . 17
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Appendix A. Item-by-Item Summary of the 1995 Cycles Data . . . . . 19
Table 1: Final Disposition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Table 2: Demographic Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Table 3: Overview of Cycles Survey Questions . . . . . . . . . . .4
Figure 1: General Satisfaction with UMass Experience 1978-1995 . . 5
Figure 2: Knowledge Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Figure 3: Differences by Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Figure 4: Differences in Knowledge Gain between Students Who
Considered withdrawal and Those Who Did Not . . . . . . . 9
Figure 5: Satisfaction with Services and Resources . . . . . . . .10
Figure 6: Satisfaction by Consideration of Withdrawal . . . . . . 11
Figure 7: Extent to Which Students Feel a Sense of
Community at UMass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Figure 8: Alcohol and Drug Use as a Campus Problem . . . . . . . .13
Figure 9: Cheating and Eating Disorders as a Campus Problem . . . 13
Figure 10: Perceptions of Harassment as Campus Social Problems . . 14
Figure 11: Assessment of Lack of Diversity by Race/Ethnicity . . . 15
Figure 12: Witnessing and Experiencing Harassment On Campus . . . .16
Figure 13: Use of Five-College Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Now in its nineteenth year, the Cycles Survey is an annual project which measures student opinions and attitudes about their academic and social experiences on campus. Developed at Hampshire College by Dr. Daniel Kegan as a means of continuously monitoring the quality of undergraduate life, the Cycles Survey is administered at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst by the Student Affairs Research, Information, and Systems Office (SARIS). Cycles data are used to identify long-term trends and to assess annual changes in students' perceptions of their experiences at UMass.
Since 1990, the Cycles Survey has been conducted as a telephone survey; thus, these surveys differ greatly from previous mail-out Cycles surveys. The telephone survey is much less costly; however, it is also shorter and the number of respondents is smaller. Due to these differences in survey methodology, the reader should use caution when comparing results with previous Cycles surveys.
The 1995 survey includes the traditional core of Cycles questions investigating student satisfaction with academic and social experiences, academic progress, satisfaction with particular University services and resources, and use of Five-College services. The survey also questions students about their perceptions of campus social problems, as well as their experiences with harassment on campus. In 1995 questions on students' perceived progress made in various areas of their education were again added after having been eliminated in 1990.
As in past years, Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke and Smith Colleges participated in the Five College Cycles project. The results and comparisons of each of the surveys are presented in SARIS Report No. 299, Five College Cycles 1995: A Comparison of Student Views of Life at the Five Colleges.
On three successive Tuesday evenings during Spring semester, March 28, April 4, and April 11, SARIS interviewers attempted to contact a sample of 1,655 UMass students who were randomly selected from the entire undergraduate population to participate in the 1995 Cycles survey. Of these students, 898 were successfully contacted and 749 agreed to be interviewed, resulting in a response rate of fifty-four percent for the survey. The final disposition is presented below in Table 1.
TABLE 1. FINAL DISPOSITION
% of %of
N Total Contacted
In and cooperated 749 45.3% 83.4%
In, would not cooperate 149 9.0% 16.6%
Not in 484 29.2%
Unobtainable phone number 251 15.2%
Not eligible 22 1.3%
TOTAL 655 100.00% 100.00%
Table 2 compares Cycles respondents and the Spring 1995 UMass Amherst full-time undergraduate population. The table illustrates that the demographic breakdown of the Cycles sample closely matches that of the student population. The only differences between the Cycles sample and the overall population are that younger students residing on-campus are overrepresented slightly.
1995 Cycles Full-time Undergraduate
Respondents Population Spring '95
(n = 749) (n = 15,531)
Sex
Female 46.7% 47.9%
Male 53.3% 52.1%
Class
First-year 29.6% 28.8%
Sophomore 23.5% 25.9%
Junior 26.2% 26.4%
Senior 19.3% 18.3%
Non-classified 1.4% 0.6%
Age
17-21 81.0% 76.5%
22-25 15.6% 18.7%
26+ 3.4% 4.8%
Ethnicity*
White 85.9% 86.1%
Black 3.2% 3.9%
Hispanic 3.2% 3.6%
Asian/Pacific Isl. 6.9% 5.7%
American Indian 0.4% 0.4%
Cape Verdean 0.4% 0.4%
Transfer Students 22.8% 23.0%
Residence
On-campus 68.6% 64.2%
Off-campus 31.4% 35.8%
*"Unknown," "other," and "international" not included in ethnicity
The results of the 1995 Cycles Survey are presented in six sections. Table 3 summarizes the layout of the report. Section 1, "Overall Experience at UMass," focuses on students' general satisfaction with the University. Section 2 reports students' opinions on various aspects of their academic experience. Sections 3 and 4 depict students' satisfaction with selected services and resources and their experiences outside of academics. Section 5 summarizes students' perceptions of and experiences with campus social problems. Section 6 covers student use of selected Five-College services. Appendix A provides item-by-item results for the 1995 Cycles survey.
Section Survey Item Number*
1. Overall Experience at UMass:
Satisfaction with University Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Consideration of Withdrawing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Aspects of Satisfaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41, 42, 43, 45
2. Academic Experience:
Satisfaction with Academic Experience . . . 2, 3, 6, 12, 13, 24, 44
Knowledge Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-40
Personal Computer Ownership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
3. Selected Services and Resources:
Residential Experience and Dining . . . . . . . . . . . 5, 7-10, 23
Campus Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1, 14
Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16,17
Other Selected Services and Resources . . . .15, 18, 19, 20, 22, 84
4. Non-Academic Experience:
Satisfaction with Social Life . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 25, 76, 77
5. Perceptions of Campus Social Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . .67-75
Harassment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78-82
6. Use of Selected Five-College Services . . . . . . . . . . . . .46-66
*See Appendix A
Respondents were asked how satisfied they are with the University of Massachusetts and to what extent they agree with various attitudinal statements about the University. Students also were asked whether they had considered withdrawing from the University during the 1995 Spring semester.
The vast majority of 1995 University of Massachusetts students (93.0%, n=678) report being "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with their overall UMass experience. However, white students are significantly more likely than non-white students to report being "very satisfied" (25.5% vs. 17.1%, p < .05). For the purposes of testing for ethnic differences in this report "Hispanic" respondents are always grouped into the non-white category. Only sixteen students in the sample indicate that they are "very dissatisfied" with their UMass experience. Figure 1 illustrates comparisons of overall student satisfaction since 1978. As stated previously, the different methodology used prior to 1990 makes it difficult to make direct comparisons between studies conducted since 1990 with studies conducted prior to 1990.
Nearly one-forth (23.6%, n=113) of the students surveyed report that they had considered withdrawing from the university at least somewhat seriously during the spring semester. However, fewer than one-tenth of the students (8.0%, n=58) report that they considered withdrawing "very seriously." Freshmen and sophomores are significantly more likely to consider withdrawal than juniors and seniors (30.5% vs. 15.5%, p < .001). Sex and ethnicity are not significantly related to consideration of withdrawal. Not surprisingly, students who had considered withdrawing from the University are significantly more likely to indicate dissatisfaction with their University experience than students who had not considered withdrawing (14.9% vs. 4.1%, p < .001).
Respondents were asked to what extent they agree or disagree with a number of general attitudinal statements about the University. The vast majority of students (88.0%, n=530) agree either somewhat or strongly that "UMass is a good place to find out who you are." Students who had not considered withdrawing from the University are significantly more likely to agree strongly with this statement than students who had considered withdrawing (39.3% vs. 30.1%, p < .01). Also, women are more likely than men to agree strongly with this statement (42.6% vs. 32.5%, p < .05). Almost half of the students (43.1%, n=313) agree at least somewhat with the statement "sometimes I wish I had attended a more prestigious college." One-quarter of the students (24.2%, n=176) said that they "strongly disagree" with this statement. Students who had considered withdrawing from the University are significantly more likely to agree with this statement than students who had not considered withdrawing (52.9% vs. 40.1%, p < .01).
Despite most students' general satisfaction with their University experience, 67.0% (n=482) "somewhat agree" or "strongly agree" that "most students at UMass are treated like numbers, not people." Students who had considered withdrawing from the University are more likely to agree strongly with this statement than those students who had not (30.7% vs. 13.4%, p < .001). In addition, almost one-half (47.5%, n=233) of the students agree that "administrators at UMass do not seem to care about students."
Nine out of every ten Cycles respondents (88.4%, n=645) report being "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with their academic experience. Students who had considered withdrawing are significantly more likely to express dissatisfaction with their academic experience than students who had not considered withdrawing (22.5% vs. 8.5%, p < .001).
Students also were asked how satisfied they are with four specific aspects of their academic experience. Eighty-five percent (n=618) of the respondents are "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with their spring schedule of courses, and 81.7% (n=568) report satisfaction with the accessibility of faculty. Those considering withdrawal are more likely than those not considering withdrawal to be dissatisfied with their schedule (21.7% vs. 13.6%, p < .01). The majority of students (86.2%, n=639) also are satisfied with their academic progress.
Students who had considered withdrawing are significantly more likely to report dissatisfaction with their academic progress than those who had not considered withdrawing (27.1% vs. 9.4%, p < .001).
When asked to report their level of satisfaction with their academic advisor, 25.7% (n=189) of the students reported having "no basis for judgement." Of the 446 students who were able to answer this question, two-thirds (62.2%, n=339) report satisfaction with their academic advisor. In addition, nearly three-quarters (70.7%, n=506) of the respondents agree at least somewhat with the statement "faculty members at UMass are concerned about undergraduates' academic progress."
A new battery of questions were added to the 1995 Cycles survey. This battery contains 15 questions which pertain to the respondents' progress in several areas of their education. These items do not attempt to measure actual gains in knowledge, but rather are based upon self-perceptions of progress. Several of these items were included in the Cycles surveys prior to 1990.
In general, respondents feel they have made the largest gains in their ability to learn on their own, their understanding of themselves, their awareness of different philosophies, cultures and ways of life, and their ability to relate to those of different races, nationalities and religions. Respondents feel they have made the smallest gains in their understanding of the historical context of current events, their understanding and enjoyment of art, music and drama, their development of leadership skills, their ability to think quantitatively, and their understanding of the nature of science and experimentation. Respondents report moderate gains in the areas of career preperation, ability to work in groups, understanding the relationships between ideas, writing ability, analytical and logical ability, and general education. Figure 2 presents the percentage of respondents who feel they have progressed either "quite a bit" or "very much" on each knowledge gain item.
Self-perceived progress on a number of these items appears to be related to the respondents' sex, year in school, consideration of withdrawal and school or college of their chosen major. Females are more likely than males to report "quite a bit" or "very much" progess in their ability to work in groups (57.4% vs. 48.6%, p < .05) and their ability to relate to people of different races, nationalities and religions (69.3% vs. 56.5%, p < .001). Juniors and seniors are more likely than sophomores and first year students to report "quite a bit" or "very much" progress in the following areas: quantitative ability, understanding the relationships between ideas, understanding the nature of science and experimentation, analytical and logical ability, leadership skills, understanding the historical context of current events, ability to do group work, and career preparation (p < .001 for all items except "understanding the nature of science," which is p < .01). Data on these differences are reported in Figure 3.
Students who are considering withdrawal from the university are significantly less likely to report progress on 13 of the 15 items than those who are not considering withdrawal (p < .001 for all items except "understanding the nature of science," which is p < .01 and "becoming aware of different philosophies, cultures, and ways of life," which is p < .05). Figure 4 presents knowledge gain differences between these two groups.
Almost half of the students surveyed (44.1%, n=318) indicate that they rent (3.1%, n=22) or own (44.1%, n=296) a personal computer here at the University. Computer ownership is not significantly related to ethnicity or consideration of withdrawal.
As in previous years, students were asked to what extent they are satisfied with their residential experience, their campus dining experiences, campus security, University Health Services, and several other UMass services. Comparisons by sex, class year, and consideration of withdrawing from the University are presented. Figure 5 illustrates the percentages of students who are either "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with various campus services. Figure 6 illustrates significant differences between satisfaction levels of students who had considered withdrawing from the University and those who had not considered withdrawing.
All Cycles respondents were asked to what extent they are satisfied with their residential experience. Students who live on-campus also were asked to indicate their level of satisfaction with their professional and student housing staff. Finally, students who purchase a meal plan were asked to indicate their level of satisfaction with campus food services.
Over three-quarters (77.6%, n=551) of this year's respondents report that they are "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with their residential experience. Also, those who live off-campus are significantly more likely to be "very satisfied" with their residential experience (36.5% vs. 20.5%, p < .001).
Over four-fifths (82.6%, n=314) of the students living in campus residence halls report satisfaction with their professional live-in housing staff, and nearly the same proportion (85.6%, n=384) report satisfaction with their student live-in housing staff (Resident Assistant).
Only 1.9% (n=8) of the students using campus Dining Commons report that they are "very satisfied" with the food service, but an additional 32.4% (n=139) indicate that they are "satisfied." More than one-third (36.8%, n=158) of the students say they are "dissatisfied" with the food service, and an additional one-quarter (28.9%, n=124) say they are "very dissatisfied."
The vast majority of students who live on-campus (88.3%, n=415) indicate satisfaction with the security in their residence hall. Only 1.9% (n=9) say they are "very dissatisfied" with this campus service. When asked about their satisfaction with campus security almost nine out of ten (88.4%, n=520) of the students report satisfaction.
Students were asked to indicate the extent to which they are satisfied with the medical care and personal counseling provided by University Health Services (UHS). Nearly two-thirds (62.1%, n=342) of the 551 respondents who have used UHS for medical care say they are "satisfied" or "very satisfied." Only one-tenth (12.0%, n=66) of the students indicate that they are "very dissatisfied" with UHS when used for medical care. Three-quarters (74.1%, n=152) of the 195 students who have utilized UHS for personal counseling report that they are "satisfied" or "very satisfied."
Students were asked to what extent they are satisfied with the services and resources of the Career Counseling and Placement Office, the Library, the Financial Aid Office, the Bursar's Office, and the Registrar's Office. Three-quarters (74.3%, n=266) of the 412 students who had used career counseling and placement services report that they are "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with the services they received. The majority (90.5%, n=640) of Cycles respondents indicate satisfaction with Library resources and services.
Nine out of every ten (89.4%, n=572) respondents reported that they are "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with the services provided by the Registrar's Office, while 59.5% (n=361) express that they are "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with the Bursar's Office. In contrast, 67.1% (n=282) of students who use the Financial Aid Office indicate satisfaction with that office, and nearly the same proportion (60.4%, n=288) report satisfaction with their financial aid package.
Students also were asked how much of their college expenses are paid by financial aid. Two-fifths of the respondents (39.6%, n=281) report that "none" of their expenses are paid by financial aid, while 38.3% (n=272) report "some," 16.2% (n=115) report "most," and 5.9% (n=42) report that "all" of their expenses are paid by financial aid.
Students were asked to what extent they are satisfied with their social life and programmed social activities (concerts, movies, etc.) at the University. The vast majority (92.6%, n=672) of Cycles respondents report that they are "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with their social life. White students are more likely than non-white students to be "very satisfied" with their social life (46.9% vs. 32.0%, p < .05).
The vast majority (89.5%, n=594) of students report that they are either "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with programmed social activities. However, non-white students and male students are more likely to be dissatisfied with these activities. Eighteen percent of non-white respondents are dissatisfied with programed social activities, while only nine percent of white respondents feel similarly (p < .05). In addition, fourteen percent of male respondents are dissatisfied with programmed social activities, while only seven percent of female respondents feel dissatisfied with these activities (p < .01).
As noted in Figure 7, one-quarter of the students (25.4%, n=183) indicate that they feel a sense of community at UMass either to a very great or great extent, but 29.4% (n=212) say to a very little or little extent. In addition, students who are considering withdrawal are less likely to feel a sense of community than those who are not considering withdrawal (p < .001).
Only 5.6% (n=41) of the students indicate that they have felt lonely to a very great or great extent during the Spring semester, while one-half (47.6%, n=343) indicate that they felt lonely "to a very little extent." Female students, those considering withdrawal, and freshmen are more likely to feel lonely than males, those not considering withdrawal, and non-freshmen, respectively. Women are more likely than men to say that they felt lonely at least to some extent (30,4% vs. 24.8%, p < .01). Students who are considering withdrawal are more likely to feel lonely at least to some extent (38.8% vs. 24.1%, p < .001).
As in previous years, Cycles respondents were asked about their perceptions of eight different campus problems: harassment on the basis of sexual orientation, harassment on the basis of religious affiliation, racial harassment, sexual harassment, lack of racial or ethnic diversity, alcohol use, drug use, and academic cheating. Figures 8 through 10 illustrate the proportions of students reporting each item to be a problem to a particular extent.
Alcohol use is perceived by the greatest proportion (65.9%, n=471) of UMass students as being a problem to either a great or very great extent. A large majority (86.7%, n=620) of the students say that alcohol use is a problem at least "to some extent." Nearly one-half (46.7%, n=330) of the students indicate that drug use is a problem to a great or very great extent. Approximately one-fifth of the students think that eating disorders (21%, n=129) and cheating (19.3%, n= 103) are problems to a very great or great extent.
Fifteen percent of the students report that sexual harassment (n=104) and harassment on the basis of sexual orientation (n=103) is a problem to a very great or great extent. Two out of five students (19.2%, n=134) report that they think racial harassment is a campus problem to a great or very great extent. In addition, non-white students are more likely than white students to report that racial harassment is a problem to a great or very great extent (29.4% vs. 16.7%, p < .01). Only five percent (n=35) felt that harassment based on religious affiliation is a problem "to a great extent" or "to a very great extent."
Only fourteen percent (n=99) of the students surveyed think that lack of racial or ethnic diversity is a campus problem to a very great or great extent. Almost one-half of the students (43.1%, n=309) say that this is a problem "to a very little extent." However, as noted in Figure 11, non-white students are significantly more likely to see this as a problem "to a great" and "very great extent" than white students (26.2% vs. 11.3%, p < .001).
Respondents were asked whether they had witnessed and/or experienced four different types of harassment at UMass during the past year: harassment on the basis of sexual orientation, racial harassment, sexual harassment, and harassment on the basis of religious affiliation. Note that since the Cycles sample is not stratified in any way (ie. small segments of the population are not oversampled), the data for these items must be examined carefully. For example, the fact that only nine percent of the sample said they had experienced racial harassment must be understood in the context of the racial make-up of the sample; non-whites represent fourteen percent of the sample as well as the total population. More than one-quarter (26.7%, n=192) of the students indicate that they had personally witnessed racial harassment. Almost one-fifth (18.8%, n=136) report that they had witnessed sexual harassment. More than one-fifth (23.8%, n=172) of the students indicate that they had witnessed harassment on the basis of sexual orientation at UMass during the past year. In addition,less than one-tenth (8.4%, n=61) of the respondents indicate that they had witnessed harassment on the basis of religious affiliation at UMass during the past year. Figure 12 illustrates the percentages of students who have witnessed and experienced each type of harassment.
Substantially lower percentages of students indicate that they had personally experienced each of the four types of harassment. Ten percent (n=71) of the respondents report having experienced sexual harassment. Women were significantly more likely than men to report having been sexually harassed (15.8% vs. 3%, p < .001). Nine percent of the students (n=64) report having experienced racial harassment, and six percent (n=41) report experiencing harassment on the basis of religion. Six percent (n=43) report experiencing harassment on the basis of sexual orientation. Seven percent (n=47) of those surveyed report having experienced some other form(s) of harassment at UMass during the past year.
Altogether, 24.7% (n=181) of the 1995 Cycles respondents report that they personally had experienced at least one form of harassment at UMass during the past year. Almost two-fifths (52.3%, n=384) of all the students surveyed report having witnessed at least one type of harassment at UMass in the previous year. Non-white students are significantly more likely than white students to report witnessing and/or experiencing racial harassment (21.8% vs. 5.9%, p < .01).
As noted in Figure 13, one-twentieth (5.4%, n=39) of the 1995 Cycles respondents report taking at least one class at another of the five-colleges; only two of these students indicate dissatisfaction with the course(s) they took. More than one-fifth (23.2%, n=169) of the students indicate using the bus service "almost daily," while 19.2% (n=127) use the buses "once or twice a week," and 27.8% (n=202) said never. One-fifth (19.4%, n=122) of the students use the libraries at other Five College schools at least "once or twice a month." Slightly more than one-fifth (22.6%, n=164) of the students say they use the on-line Five College calendar, and 21.9% (n=159) say that they do not know about the calendar.
The results of the 1995 Cycles Survey once again indicate high levels of student satisfaction with most general aspects of college life at the University of Massachusetts. With some exceptions, this high level of satisfaction extends across both academic and non-academic areas, as well as across the various services and resources provided by the University. It is important to emphasize that all results of the Cycles survey, whether concerning levels of satisfaction or extent of agreement, reflect solely student opinions and self-perceptions of their own experiences.
Although the vast majority of Cycles respondents report satisfaction with their overall University experience, substantial proportions agree that "most students at UMass are treated like numbers, not people," and that "administrators at UMass do not seem to care about students." Large majorities of students report satisfaction with their academic experience, their academic progress, the accessibility of faculty, and their course schedules. Almost half of the students report that they own or rent a personal computer here at the University; this figure is up nine percent from last year.
Sixty-six percent of the students surveyed report dissatisfaction with the Dining Commons Food Service; up six percent. One-third report dissatisfaction with University Health Services when used for medical care, and similar proportions express dissatisfaction with their academic advisor, and the Financial Aid Office. In contrast, large majorities of students report satisfaction with Library resources and services, the security in their residence hall, and campus security.
One-forth of the Cycles respondents report having considered withdrawing from the University at least somewhat seriously during the Spring 1995 semester. Thirty-six percent of all first-year students say they had considered withdrawing, compared to thirteen percent of seniors. As might be expected, students who had considered withdrawing are significantly less likely than the other students to report satisfaction with their University experience, their academic experience, their academic progress, their residential experience, and social life.
While a very small proportion of students report feeling lonely to a great extent during the Spring 1995 semester, almost one-third indicate feeling little or very little sense of community at UMass. Nonetheless, the vast majority of Cycles respondents indicate satisfaction with their social life as well as programmed social activities, and over three-quarters report satisfaction with their residential experience.
Alcohol use is the campus social problem which the greatest proportion of students classify as a present campus problem to a great or very great extent. Sixty-six percent of the students say that alcohol use is a problem to a great or very great extent, while forty-four percent think drug use is a problem to a great or very great extent. Between fourteen and nineteen percent think that racial harassment, sexual harassment, harassment on the basis of sexual orientation, and lack of racial diversity are problems to a great or very great extent.
Student responses indicate that harassment on campus affects substantial proportions of students. Over one-half of the Cycles respondents report witnessing at least one form of harassment at UMass during the past year, and more than one-quarter report having personally experienced at least one form of harassment. Sexual harassment and racial harassment are the most prevalent forms of harassment reported by Cycles respondents. Not surprisingly, racial harassment is significantly more likely to be reported by non-white respondents.
Appendix A:
1995 Cycles Item-by-item
Project Pulse March 28, April 4 & April 11
1995 CYCLES SURVEY
Hello, is this _________? My name is _________. I'm calling you
tonight for Project PULSE of the Student Affairs Research Office at
UMass. We are conducting our annual Cycles Survey this week to
assess the experiences of undergraduates at UMass and your satisfaction
with a variety of services. You have been randomly selected from the
entire undergraduate student population to be part of this survey. The
survey should only take about 10 minutes of your time, and your answer
will be completely confidential. Feel free to ask questions at any
time.
First I would like to know how satisfied you have been with your overall
UMass experience.
During THIS SEMESTER, how satisfied have you been with each of the following?
1. Your University experience
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 16 2.2 2.2 2.2
dissatisfied 2 35 4.8 4.8 7.0
satisfied 3 521 71.0 71.3 78.2
very satisfied 4 159 21.7 21.8 100.0
dk 5 3 .4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.126
Valid Cases 731 Missing Cases 3
2. Your academic progress
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 17 2.3 2.3 2.3
dissatisfied 2 84 11.4 11.5 13.8
satisfied 3 455 62.0 62.3 76.2
very satisfied 4 174 23.7 23.8 100.0
dk 5 4 .5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.077
Valid Cases 730 Missing Cases 4
3. Your academic experience
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 4 .5 .5 .5
dissatisfied 2 81 11.0 11.1 11.6
satisfied 3 531 72.3 72.7 84.4
very satisfied 4 114 15.5 15.6 100.0
dk 5 4 .5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.034
Valid Cases 730 Missing Cases 4
4. Your social life
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 8 1.1 1.1 1.1
dissatisfied 2 46 6.3 6.3 7.4
satisfied 3 352 48.0 48.5 55.9
very satisfied 4 320 43.6 44.1 100.0
dk 5 8 1.1 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.355
Valid Cases 726 Missing Cases 8
5. Your residential experience
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 32 4.4 4.5 4.5
dissatisfied 2 127 17.3 17.9 22.4
satisfied 3 399 54.4 56.2 78.6
very satisfied 4 152 20.7 21.4 100.0
dk 5 24 3.3 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.945
Valid Cases 710 Missing Cases 24
6. Your present schedule of courses
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 10 1.4 1.4 1.4
dissatisfied 2 103 14.0 14.1 15.5
satisfied 3 468 63.8 64.0 79.5
very satisfied 4 150 20.4 20.5 100.0
dk 5 3 .4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.037
Valid Cases 731 Missing Cases 3
7. Do you live on-campus
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 491 66.9 67.4 67.4
no 2 238 32.4 32.6 100.0
dk 3 5 .7 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.326
Valid Cases 729 Missing Cases 5
8. Are you on a meal plan
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 435 59.3 59.6 59.6
no 2 295 40.2 40.4 100.0
dk 3 4 .5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.404
Valid Cases 730 Missing Cases 4
During THIS SEMESTER, how satisfied have you been with the following?
9. Your professional live-in housing staff, for example
your Resident Direct or Head of Residence
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 22 4.5 5.8 5.8
dissatisfied 2 44 9.0 11.6 17.4
satisfied 3 229 46.6 60.3 77.6
very satisfied 4 85 17.3 22.4 100.0
dk 6 111 22.6 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 491 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.992
Valid Cases 380 Missing Cases 111
10. Your student live-in housing staff, that is, your Resident Assistant
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 20 4.1 4.4 4.4
dissatisfied 2 44 9.0 9.7 14.2
satisfied 3 227 46.2 50.2 64.4
very satisfied 4 161 32.8 35.6 100.0
dk 6 39 7.9 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 491 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.170
Valid Cases 452 Missing Cases 39
11. The security in the residence hall
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 9 1.8 1.9 1.9
dissatisfied 2 46 9.4 9.8 11.7
satisfied 3 324 66.0 68.9 80.6
very satisfied 4 91 18.5 19.4 100.0
dk 6 21 4.3 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 491 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.057
Valid Cases 470 Missing Cases 21
Next, I would like to know how satisfied you have been with some
specific aspects of your University experience. During this semester
how satisfied have you been with each of the following?
12. Academic advising
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 54 7.4 9.9 9.9
dissatisfied 2 152 20.7 27.9 37.8
satisfied 3 236 32.2 43.3 81.1
very satisfied 4 103 14.0 18.9 100.0
dk 6 189 25.7 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.712
Valid Cases 545 Missing Cases 189
13. The accessibility of faculty
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 17 2.3 2.4 2.4
dissatisfied 2 119 16.2 16.9 19.3
satisfied 3 458 62.4 65.1 84.4
very satisfied 4 110 15.0 15.6 100.0
dk 6 30 4.1 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.939
Valid Cases 704 Missing Cases 30
14. Campus security
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 14 1.9 2.4 2.4
dissatisfied 2 54 7.4 9.2 11.6
satisfied 3 470 64.0 79.9 91.5
very satisfied 4 50 6.8 8.5 100.0
dk 6 146 19.9 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.946
Valid Cases 588 Missing Cases 146
15. Career counseling and placement services
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 25 3.4 6.1 6.1
dissatisfied 2 81 11.0 19.7 25.7
satisfied 3 260 35.4 63.1 88.8
very satisfied 4 46 6.3 11.2 100.0
dk 6 322 43.9 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.794
Valid Cases 412 Missing Cases 322
16. The University Health Services when used for medical care
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 66 9.0 12.0 12.0
dissatisfied 2 143 19.5 26.0 37.9
satisfied 3 283 38.6 51.4 89.3
very satisfied 4 59 8.0 10.7 100.0
dk 6 183 24.9 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.608
Valid Cases 551 Missing Cases 183
17. The University Health Services for personal counseling
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 15 2.0 7.3 7.3
dissatisfied 2 38 5.2 18.5 25.9
satisfied 3 132 18.0 64.4 90.2
very satisfied 4 20 2.7 9.8 100.0
dk 6 529 72.1 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.766
Valid Cases 205 Missing Cases 529
18. Library resources and services
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 22 3.0 3.1 3.1
dissatisfied 2 45 6.1 6.4 9.5
satisfied 3 473 64.4 66.9 76.4
very satisfied 4 167 22.8 23.6 100.0
dk 6 27 3.7 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.110
Valid Cases 707 Missing Cases 27
19. The Financial Aid Office
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 57 7.8 12.0 12.0
dissatisfied 2 130 17.7 27.4 39.4
satisfied 3 258 35.1 54.3 93.7
very satisfied 4 30 4.1 6.3 100.0
dk 6 259 35.3 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.549
Valid Cases 475 Missing Cases 259
20. Your financial aid package
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 57 7.8 11.7 11.7
dissatisfied 2 120 16.3 24.7 36.4
satisfied 3 259 35.3 53.3 89.7
very satisfied 4 50 6.8 10.3 100.0
dk 6 248 33.8 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.621
Valid Cases 486 Missing Cases 248
21. NO ITEM
22. The services provided by the Bursars Office
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 68 9.3 11.2 11.2
dissatisfied 2 178 24.3 29.3 40.5
satisfied 3 353 48.1 58.2 98.7
very satisfied 4 8 1.1 1.3 100.0
dk 6 127 17.3 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.496
Valid Cases 607 Missing Cases 127
23. The Dining Commons Food Service
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 124 28.5 28.9 28.9
dissatisfied 2 158 36.3 36.8 65.7
satisfied 3 139 32.0 32.4 98.1
very satisfied 4 8 1.8 1.9 100.0
dk 6 6 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 435 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.072
Valid Cases 429 Missing Cases 6
24. The services provided by the Registrar's Office
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 21 2.9 3.3 3.3
dissatisfied 2 47 6.4 7.3 10.6
satisfied 3 544 74.1 85.0 95.6
very satisfied 4 28 3.8 4.4 100.0
dk 6 94 12.8 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.905
Valid Cases 640 Missing Cases 94
25. Programmed social activities, for example, campus concerts, movies, etc.
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 11 1.5 1.7 1.7
dissatisfied 2 59 8.0 8.9 10.5
satisfied 3 455 62.0 68.5 79.1
very satisfied 4 139 18.9 20.9 100.0
dk 6 70 9.5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.087
Valid Cases 664 Missing Cases 70
Reflecting on your college experience up to now, how much do you feel
you have gained or made progress in each of the following respects?
26. Career preparation; how much progress have you made in acquiring applicable knowledge and skills?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 79 10.8 10.9 10.9
some 2 279 38.0 38.4 49.2
quite a bit 3 244 33.2 33.6 82.8
very much 4 125 17.0 17.2 100.0
dk 5 7 1.0 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.571
Valid Cases 727 Missing Cases 7
27. Gaining a broad general education about different fields of knowledge
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 51 6.9 7.0 7.0
some 2 245 33.4 33.6 40.6
quite a bit 3 283 38.6 38.8 79.4
very much 4 150 20.4 20.6 100.0
dk 5 5 .7 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.730
Valid Cases 729 Missing Cases 5
28. Writing clearly and effectively
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 79 10.8 10.9 10.9
some 2 244 33.2 33.6 44.5
quite a bit 3 256 34.9 35.3 79.8
very much 4 147 20.0 20.2 100.0
dk 5 8 1.1 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.649
Valid Cases 726 Missing Cases 8
29. Becoming aware of different philosophies, cultures, and ways of life
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 57 7.8 7.8 7.8
some 2 221 30.1 30.3 38.1
quite a bit 3 245 33.4 33.6 71.6
very much 4 207 28.2 28.4 100.0
dk 5 4 .5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.825
Valid Cases 730 Missing Cases 4
30. How much progress have you made in understanding yourself, for
example, your abilities, interests, and personality?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 39 5.3 5.4 5.4
some 2 178 24.3 24.5 29.9
quite a bit 3 306 41.7 42.1 72.0
very much 4 203 27.7 28.0 100.0
dk 5 8 1.1 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.927
Valid Cases 726 Missing Cases 8
31. Understanding the nature of science and experimentation
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 181 24.7 25.0 25.0
some 2 246 33.5 33.9 58.9
quite a bit 3 164 22.3 22.6 81.5
very much 4 134 18.3 18.5 100.0
dk 5 9 1.2 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.346
Valid Cases 725 Missing Cases 9
32. Ability to think analytically and logically
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 69 9.4 9.5 9.5
some 2 243 33.1 33.4 42.9
quite a bit 3 250 34.1 34.3 77.2
very much 4 166 22.6 22.8 100.0
dk 5 6 .8 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.705
Valid Cases 728 Missing Cases 6
33. Ability to learn on your own and pursue ideas
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 29 4.0 4.0 4.0
some 2 165 22.5 22.6 26.6
quite a bit 3 301 41.0 41.2 67.8
very much 4 235 32.0 32.2 100.0
dk 5 4 .5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.016
Valid Cases 730 Missing Cases 4
34. Developing an understanding and enjoyment of art, music and drama
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 185 25.2 25.6 25.6
some 2 244 33.2 33.8 59.4
quite a bit 3 178 24.3 24.7 84.1
very much 4 115 15.7 15.9 100.0
dk 5 12 1.6 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.309
Valid Cases 722 Missing Cases 12
35. How much progress have you made in relating well to people of
different races, nations, and religions?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 71 9.7 9.9 9.9
some 2 200 27.2 27.9 37.7
quite a bit 3 226 30.8 31.5 69.2
very much 4 221 30.1 30.8 100.0
dk 5 16 2.2 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.831
Valid Cases 718 Missing Cases 16
36. How much have you gained in terms of quantitative thinking?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 87 11.9 12.4 12.4
some 2 316 43.1 45.0 57.3
quite a bit 3 201 27.4 28.6 85.9
very much 4 99 13.5 14.1 100.0
dk 5 31 4.2 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.444
Valid Cases 703 Missing Cases 31
37. Developing leadership skills
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 166 22.6 23.2 23.2
some 2 257 35.0 35.9 59.2
quite a bit 3 175 23.8 24.5 83.6
very much 4 117 15.9 16.4 100.0
dk 5 19 2.6 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.340
Valid Cases 715 Missing Cases 19
38. Working effectively in a group
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 95 12.9 13.1 13.1
some 2 247 33.7 34.1 47.2
quite a bit 3 220 30.0 30.3 77.5
very much 4 163 22.2 22.5 100.0
dk 5 9 1.2 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.622
Valid Cases 725 Missing Cases 9
39. Understanding the historical context of current events
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 169 23.0 23.4 23.4
some 2 287 39.1 39.7 63.1
quite a bit 3 181 24.7 25.0 88.1
very much 4 86 11.7 11.9 100.0
dk 5 11 1.5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.254
Valid Cases 723 Missing Cases 11
40. Understanding the relationships, similarities, and differences between ideas
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little 1 49 6.7 6.8 6.8
some 2 286 39.0 39.5 46.3
quite a bit 3 262 35.7 36.2 82.5
very much 4 127 17.3 17.5 100.0
dk 5 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.645
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10
Now I'm going to read some statements with which you may agree or
disagree. Please state the extent to which you agree with the following?
41. Sometimes I wish I had attended a more prestigious college
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
strongly disagree 1 176 24.0 24.2 24.2
somewhat disagree 2 238 32.4 32.7 56.9
somewhat agree 3 256 34.9 35.2 92.2
strongly agree 4 57 7.8 7.8 100.0
dk 5 7 1.0 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.267
Valid Cases 727 Missing Cases 7
42. UMass is a good place to find out who you are
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
strongly disagree 1 26 3.5 3.6 3.6
somewhat disagree 2 60 8.2 8.4 12.0
somewhat agree 3 366 49.9 51.1 63.1
strongly agree 4 264 36.0 36.9 100.0
dk 5 18 2.5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.212
Valid Cases 716 Missing Cases 18
43. Most students at UMass are treated like numbers, not people
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
strongly disagree 1 41 5.6 5.7 5.7
somewhat disagree 2 196 26.7 27.3 33.0
somewhat agree 3 316 43.1 43.9 76.9
strongly agree 4 166 22.6 23.1 100.0
dk 5 15 2.0 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.844
Valid Cases 719 Missing Cases 15
44. Faculty members at UMass are concerned about undergraduates' academic progress
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
strongly disagree 1 50 6.8 7.0 7.0
somewhat disagree 2 160 21.8 22.3 29.3
somewhat agree 3 420 57.2 58.7 88.0
strongly agree 4 86 11.7 12.0 100.0
dk 5 18 2.5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.757
Valid Cases 716 Missing Cases 18
45. Administrators at UMass do not seem to care about students
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
strongly disagree 1 68 9.3 9.7 9.7
somewhat disagree 2 300 40.9 42.8 52.5
somewhat agree 3 237 32.3 33.8 86.3
strongly agree 4 96 13.1 13.7 100.0
dk 5 33 4.5 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.515
Valid Cases 701 Missing Cases 33
Next, I would like to ask about your participation in Five College
Activities. That is, the next few statements refer to your participation
in activities at Smith, Amherst, Mount Holyoke, and Hampshire Colleges.
46. Have you ever taken a course at another of the Five Colleges?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
no 1 688 93.7 94.6 94.6
yes 2 39 5.3 5.4 100.0
dk 6 7 1.0 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.054
Valid Cases 727 Missing Cases 7
47. In general, how satisfied have you been with the Five College
courses you have taken?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very dissatisfied 1 1 2.6 2.6 2.6
dissatisfied 2 1 2.6 2.6 5.3
satisfied 3 10 25.6 26.3 31.6
very satisfied 4 26 66.7 68.4 100.0
dk 5 1 2.6 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 39 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.605
Valid Cases 38 Missing Cases 1
Which of the following were reasons for your dissatisfaction?
48. The course was too difficult
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
no 2 2 100.0 100.0 100.0
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 2 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.000
Valid Cases 2 Missing Cases 0
49. The course was not challenging enough
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 1 50.0 100.0 100.0
dk 3 1 50.0 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 2 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.000
Valid Cases 1 Missing Cases 1
50. The grading policy
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 1 50.0 50.0 50.0
no 2 1 50.0 50.0 100.0
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 2 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.500
Valid Cases 2 Missing Cases 0
51. Class size was too large
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 1 50.0 50.0 50.0
no 2 1 50.0 50.0 100.0
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 2 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.500
Valid Cases 2 Missing Cases 0
52. The professor
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 1 50.0 50.0 50.0
no 2 1 50.0 50.0 100.0
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 2 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.500
Valid Cases 2 Missing Cases 0
53. Some other reason
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 1 50.0 100.0 100.0
dk 3 1 50.0 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 2 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.000
Valid Cases 1 Missing Cases 1
54. What was the other reason for your dissatisfaction?
55. Have you ever tried to find out about courses at any of the other Five-college campuses?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 151 20.6 22.0 22.0
no 2 534 72.8 78.0 100.0
dk 3 49 6.7 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.780
Valid Cases 685 Missing Cases 49
Next, I'm going to read you a list of obstacles you may have
encountered in your attempt to register for courses at another campus.
Please state how serious an obstacle each of the following were?
56. Lack of information
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
not serious 1 61 40.4 44.2 44.2
somewhat serious 2 58 38.4 42.0 86.2
very serious 3 9 6.0 6.5 92.8
extremely serious 4 10 6.6 7.2 100.0
dk 5 13 8.6 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 151 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.768
Valid Cases 138 Missing Cases 13
57. Scheduling conflicts
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
not serious 1 36 23.8 27.5 27.5
somewhat serious 2 46 30.5 35.1 62.6
very serious 3 29 19.2 22.1 84.7
extremely serious 4 20 13.2 15.3 100.0
dk 5 20 13.2 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 151 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.252
Valid Cases 131 Missing Cases 20
58. Course closed
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
not serious 1 71 47.0 58.2 58.2
somewhat serious 2 27 17.9 22.1 80.3
very serious 3 14 9.3 11.5 91.8
extremely serious 4 10 6.6 8.2 100.0
dk 5 29 19.2 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 151 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.697
Valid Cases 122 Missing Cases 29
59. Transportation
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
not serious 1 75 49.7 56.0 56.0
somewhat serious 2 29 19.2 21.6 77.6
very serious 3 23 15.2 17.2 94.8
extremely serious 4 7 4.6 5.2 100.0
dk 5 17 11.3 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 151 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.716
Valid Cases 134 Missing Cases 17
Which of the following have you used to find out about courses at the
other four campuses?
60. Faculty/advisor
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 53 35.1 35.3 35.3
no 2 97 64.2 64.7 100.0
dk 3 1 .7 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 151 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.647
Valid Cases 150 Missing Cases 1
61. Other students
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 92 60.9 60.9 60.9
no 2 59 39.1 39.1 100.0
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 151 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.39
Valid Cases 151 Missing Cases 0
62. One or more Five-College faculty/course listings
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 107 70.9 71.3 71.3
no 2 43 28.5 28.7 100.0
dk 3 1 .7 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 151 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.287
Valid Cases 150 Missing Cases 1
63. The Registrar's Office
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 19 12.6 12.7 12.7
no 2 131 86.8 87.3 100.0
dk 3 1 .7 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 151 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.873
Valid Cases 150 Missing Cases 1
How frequently this semester have you used the following aspects of
Five College cooperation?
64. Buses
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
never use 1 202 27.5 27.8 27.8
less 1 a month 2 74 10.1 10.2 38.0
1 or 2 a month 3 160 21.8 22.0 60.0
1 or 2 a week 4 122 16.6 16.8 76.8
almost daily 5 169 23.0 23.2 100.0
dk 6 7 1.0 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.975
Valid Cases 727 Missing Cases 7
65. Libraries at other schools
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
never use 1 477 65.0 65.7 65.7
less 1 a month 2 108 14.7 14.9 80.6
1 or 2 a month 3 102 13.9 14.0 94.6
1 or 2 a week 4 33 4.5 4.5 99.2
almost daily 5 6 .8 .8 100.0
dk 6 8 1.1 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.599
Valid Cases 726 Missing Cases 8
66. Do you ever use the on-line Five-College Calendar of events?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes 1 164 22.3 22.6 22.6
no 2 403 54.9 55.5 78.1
dont know about calendar 3 159 21.7 21.9 100.0
dk 4 8 1.1 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.993
Valid Cases 726 Missing Cases 8
Now, I'm going to ask you about your perceptions of problems at
UMass. In your view, to what extent is each of the following a problem
at UMass at present?
67. Harassment on the basis of religious affiliation
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 260 35.4 37.4 37.4
little extent 2 210 28.6 30.2 67.6
some extent 3 190 25.9 27.3 95.0
great extent 4 27 3.7 3.9 98.8
very great extent 5 8 1.1 1.2 100.0
dk 6 39 5.3 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.012
Valid Cases 695 Missing Cases 39
68. Harassment on the basis of sexual orientation
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 166 22.6 24.1 24.1
little extent 2 160 21.8 23.3 47.4
some extent 3 259 35.3 37.6 85.0
great extent 4 79 10.8 11.5 96.5
very great extent 5 24 3.3 3.5 100.0
dk 6 46 6.3 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.469
Valid Cases 688 Missing Cases 46
69. Sexual harassment
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 181 24.7 26.1 26.1
little extent 2 149 20.3 21.5 47.6
some extent 3 259 35.3 37.4 85.0
great extent 4 82 11.2 11.8 96.8
very great extent 5 22 3.0 3.2 100.0
dk 6 41 5.6 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.444
Valid Cases 693 Missing Cases 41
70. Racial harassment
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 163 22.2 23.3 23.3
little extent 2 126 17.2 18.0 41.3
some extent 3 276 37.6 39.5 80.8
great extent 4 98 13.4 14.0 94.8
very great extent 5 36 4.9 5.2 100.0
dk 6 35 4.8 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.597
Valid Cases 699 Missing Cases 35
71. Lack of racial or ethnic diversity
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 309 42.1 43.1 43.1
little extent 2 149 20.3 20.8 63.9
some extent 3 160 21.8 22.3 86.2
great extent 4 57 7.8 7.9 94.1
very great extent 5 42 5.7 5.9 100.0
dk 6 17 2.3 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.127
Valid Cases 717 Missing Cases 17
72. Alcohol use
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 59 8.0 8.3 8.3
little extent 2 36 4.9 5.0 13.3
some extent 3 149 20.3 20.8 34.1
great extent 4 218 29.7 30.5 64.6
very great extent 5 253 34.5 35.4 100.0
dk 6 19 2.6 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.797
Valid Cases 715 Missing Cases 19
73. Cheating in academic work
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 171 23.3 24.5 24.5
little extent 2 147 20.0 21.1 45.6
some extent 3 245 33.4 35.1 80.7
great extent 4 91 12.4 13.0 93.7
very great extent 5 44 6.0 6.3 100.0
dk 6 36 4.9 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.556
Valid Cases 698 Missing Cases 36
74. Drug use
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 75 10.2 10.6 10.6
little extent 2 76 10.4 10.8 21.4
some extent 3 225 30.7 31.9 53.3
great extent 4 184 25.1 26.1 79.3
very great extent 5 146 19.9 20.7 100.0
dk 6 28 3.8 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.354
Valid Cases 706 Missing Cases 28
75. Eating disorders
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 173 23.6 27.5 27.5
little extent 2 118 16.1 18.7 46.2
some extent 3 209 28.5 33.2 79.4
great extent 4 84 11.4 13.3 92.7
very great extent 5 46 6.3 7.3 100.0
dk 6 104 14.2 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.543
Valid Cases 630 Missing Cases 104
The next few questions concern your personal experiences at UMass.
76. In the context of this semester, to what extent do you feel a sense
of community at UMass?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 96 13.1 13.3 13.3
little extent 2 116 15.8 16.1 29.4
some extent 3 327 44.6 45.3 74.7
great extent 4 139 18.9 19.3 93.9
very great extent 5 44 6.0 6.1 100.0
dk 6 12 1.6 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.888
Valid Cases 722 Missing Cases 12
77. This semester, to what extent have you felt lonely?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
very little extent 1 343 46.7 47.4 47.4
little extent 2 181 24.7 25.0 72.4
some extent 3 159 21.7 22.0 94.3
great extent 4 30 4.1 4.1 98.5
very great extent 5 11 1.5 1.5 100.0
dk 6 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.874
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10
78. During this past year, have you personally experienced or witnessed
harassment on the basis of religious affiliation at UMass?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes experienced 1 19 2.6 2.6 2.6
yes witnessed 2 61 8.3 8.4 11.0
yes both 3 22 3.0 3.0 14.1
no neither 4 622 84.7 85.9 100.0
dk 5 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.722
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10
79. During this past year, have you personally experienced or witnessed
harassment on the basis of sexual orientation at UMass?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes experienced 1 14 1.9 1.9 1.9
yes witnessed 2 172 23.4 23.8 25.7
yes both 3 29 4.0 4.0 29.7
no neither 4 509 69.3 70.3 100.0
dk 5 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.427
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10
80. During this past year, have you personally experienced or witnessed
sexual harassment at UMass?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes experienced 1 28 3.8 3.9 3.9
yes witnessed 2 136 18.5 18.8 22.7
yes both 3 43 5.9 5.9 28.6
no neither 4 517 70.4 71.4 100.0
dk 5 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.449
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10
81. During this past year, have you personally experienced or witnessed
racial harassment at UMass?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes experienced 1 24 3.3 3.3 3.3
yes witnessed 2 192 26.2 26.7 30.0
yes both 3 40 5.4 5.6 35.6
no neither 4 463 63.1 64.4 100.0
dk 5 15 2.0 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.310
Valid Cases 719 Missing Cases 15
82. During this past year, have you personally experienced or witnessed
other forms of harassment at UMass?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes experienced 1 16 2.2 2.2 2.2
yes witnessed 2 83 11.3 11.5 13.7
yes both 3 31 4.2 4.3 18.0
no neither 4 591 80.5 82.0 100.0
dk 5 13 1.8 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.660
Valid Cases 721 Missing Cases 13
The last few questions in this survey ask for some background information.
83. Do you rent or own a personal computer, here at the University?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes rent 1 22 3.0 3.1 3.1
yes own 2 296 40.3 41.1 44.1
no 3 403 54.9 55.9 100.0
dk 4 13 1.8 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.528
Valid Cases 721 Missing Cases 13
84. This year, how much of your college expenses are paid through financial aid?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
none 1 281 38.3 39.6 39.6
some 2 272 37.1 38.3 77.9
most 3 115 15.7 16.2 94.1
all 4 42 5.7 5.9 100.0
dk 5 24 3.3 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.885
Valid Cases 710 Missing Cases 24
85. During this semester, have you considered withdrawing for any
reason from the University?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
yes very serious 1 58 7.9 8.0 8.0
yes somewhat serious 2 113 15.4 15.6 23.6
no 3 553 75.3 76.4 100.0
dk 4 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.684
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10
86. Did you enter the University as a:
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
freshman 1 559 76.2 77.2 77.2
transfer 2 165 22.5 22.8 100.0
dk 3 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.228
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10
87. In what school/college are you enrolled?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
arts & science 1 410 55.9 56.2 56.2
education 2 9 1.2 1.2 57.5
management 3 64 8.7 8.8 66.3
engineering 4 62 8.4 8.5 74.8
phy ed 5 6 .8 .8 75.6
public health 6 16 2.2 2.2 77.8
food & nat resrs 7 113 15.4 15.5 93.3
nursing 8 14 1.9 1.9 95.2
other 9 26 3.5 3.6 98.8
dk 10 9 1.2 1.2 100.0
99 5 .7 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.047
Valid Cases 729 Missing Cases 5
88. In which residential area do you live?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
off campus 1 227 30.9 31.4 31.4
central 2 109 14.9 15.1 46.4
orchard hill 3 55 7.5 7.6 54.0
northeast 4 54 7.4 7.5 61.5
southwest tower 5 127 17.3 17.5 79.0
southwest lowrise 6 86 11.7 11.9 90.9
sylvan 7 57 7.8 7.9 98.8
frat/sorority 8 9 1.2 1.2 100.0
dk 9 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 3.381
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10
89. How old are you?
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
18 118 16.1 16.3 16.3
19 176 24.0 24.3 40.6
20 147 20.0 20.3 60.8
21 146 19.9 20.1 81.0
22 58 7.9 8.0 89.0
23 32 4.4 4.4 93.4
24 10 1.4 1.4 94.8
25 13 1.8 1.8 96.6
26 3 .4 .4 97.0
27 3 .4 .4 97.4
28 2 .3 .3 97.7
29 3 .4 .4 98.1
30 2 .3 .3 98.3
31 3 .4 .4 98.8
33 1 .1 .1 98.9
35 1 .1 .1 99.0
37 1 .1 .1 99.2
39 1 .1 .1 99.3
40 2 .3 .3 99.6
43 1 .1 .1 99.7
45 1 .1 .1 99.9
65 1 .1 .1 100.0
99 9 1.2 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 20.528
Valid Cases 725 Missing Cases 9
90. Are you a:
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
freshman 1 214 29.2 29.6 29.6
sophomore 2 170 23.2 23.5 53.0
junior 3 190 25.9 26.2 79.3
senior 4 140 19.1 19.3 98.6
nonclassified 5 10 1.4 1.4 100.0
dk 6 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 2.395
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10
91. Please classify yourself according to Federal categories on ethnic background:
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
white 1 595 81.1 82.9 82.9
black 2 22 3.0 3.1 85.9
hispanic 3 22 3.0 3.1 89.0
asian or pac isl 4 48 6.5 6.7 95.7
native amer 5 3 .4 .4 96.1
cape verdean 6 3 .4 .4 96.5
nonres alien 7 4 .5 .6 97.1
other 8 21 2.9 2.9 100.0
dk 9 16 2.2 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.568
Valid Cases 718 Missing Cases 16
92. Sex
Valid Cum
Value Label Value Frequency Percent Percent Percent
female 1 338 46.0 46.7 46.7
male 2 386 52.6 53.3 100.0
dk 3 10 1.4 MISSING
------- ------- -------
TOTAL 734 100.0 100.0
Mean 1.533
Valid Cases 724 Missing Cases 10