Students' satisfaction with hostel accommodations in higher education institutions

Oke, A E; Aigbavboa, C O and Raphiri, M M (2017) Students' satisfaction with hostel accommodations in higher education institutions. Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, 15(5), pp. 652-666.

Abstract

Purpose There are several types of accommodation available to students of higher education institutions, and it is the responsibility of the institutions to focus on factors that can attract and retain students to their residences. This study aims to investigate satisfaction of higher institutions students with on-campus accommodation with an emphasis on the ethnicity of the students. Design/methodology/approach Using convenience sampling method, questionnaires were administered to students of selected residences in the study area. Mean item score was used to rank identified factors, whereas mean gap and Kruskal–Wallis K-test were adopted to examine the difference in opinion of students from various ethnic groups. Findings Overall, major features that make students dissatisfied with university-owned accommodations are enforcement of rule that compels all students to move out with their belongings during each recess, the effectiveness of the lift system, the size of wardrobe and closet, laundry service in the residence, numbers of electrical sockets and window quality. Considering dwelling unit features, neighbourhood, environmental, building quality and services provided by residence management, this study reveals that there is a significant difference in the satisfaction of students of diverse ethnic groups with their accommodation. Research limitations/implications The study was limited to on-campus residences owned by higher education institutions in South Africa. However, the findings of the study can be adopted for off-campus residences, and such owned by private individuals, agencies and other bodies provided are approved by the institutions. Originality/value The findings of this study will help management of higher education institutions to improve quality of services in their residences for the satisfaction of their students. Developers, contractors and other stakeholders involved in construction of these residences will also find the findings useful in designing and construction of the facilities.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: user satisfaction; design strategies; student housing; ethnic group; hostel; housing facilities
Index terms: agency, ethnic group, questionnaire, hostel, higher education institution, housing, sampling, design strategy, methodology, enforcement, window, user satisfaction, South Africa, effectiveness, satisfaction, quality of service, student housing
Subjects: public and environmental health, architectural elements, demography, construction type, research methods, sociology, Geography, project delivery, educational institutions, data collection methods, client relations, design methods, performance management, health safety and environment
Topics: Construction Technology, Stakeholder Management, Urban Studies, Design Practice, Health and Safety, Quality Management, Project Management, Research Practice, Geographical Context, Education
Descriptive scope: 5 PCTEA

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