The Salience of Analyzing and Collecting Undergraduate Civic Attitudes in Higher Education Institutions

Abstract: College campuses have a considerable impact on shaping their student voters and the civic fabric of their community. As youth voter turnout becomes increasingly uncertain and lower than among other demographics, institutions may need to consider using data collection methods to better align with the civic needs of their students (Herre, 2024). This study analyzes how universities can effectively identify and address unknown civic engagement gaps unique to their campuses that contribute to low youth voter turnout. To investigate this, the research team conducted a survey experiment meant to collect data that can provide important context to answer these questions. This survey provided data on four key areas of voter behavior and civic engagement. This experimental question tested whether informing 50% of total respondents about the location of the available polling locations at the start of the survey would increase their intention to vote on campus in the future. Results showed that even after this information was provided, the majority of students said that they were unlikely to do so. Based on this and other data, this study concludes that there may be a need to: increase the dissemination of key polling information between faculty and students, heighten awareness of professional and recreational civic engagement opportunities, combat lowered awareness of and interest in local candidates, increase encouragement to contact representatives, and finally sponsor dialogue to address the increasing distrust of government structures and lowered confidence in the security of elections.