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Abstract:
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The literature review includes a history of the Gay rights movement including the history of LGBT students in higher education, attitudes towards LGBT individuals in the United States as well as more specifically towards sexual minorities in higher education, and current retention strategies that are being utilized in higher education.
Statement of Problem
There is a deficiency of information about the educational experiences of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender students on campuses of higher education. More specifically, there is little to no research about the academic successes and retention of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender students and whether sexual minority students feel that their educational experiences are being affected by their sexual identity.
Sources of Data
Data was collected via anonymous online surveys from Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender students currently pursuing degrees in higher education. Supplementary data was collected via in person and telephone interviews from Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender individuals who previously received post secondary degrees and now currently work in education.
Conclusions Reached
Results of the study indicate that current Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender students feel that their experiences in higher education are not being affected by their sexual identity. However, there are implications that subtle heteronormativity continues to affect sexual minority students’ higher educational experiences. Recommendations are made for future study concerning LGBT student success and retention as well as suggestions for future best practice with sexual minority students in higher education. |
