Questioning a Myth: Comparing Commuter and Resident Students in Terms of Engagement and Satisfaction at a Large, Urban Institution

University commuter and resident students were compared in terms of level of academic engagement, social engagement, and satisfaction. The participants were 311 undergraduates at a large university in Ontario. The findings revealed that levels of academic engagement did not differ significantly between commuters and residents, but the two groups differed significantly in terms of social engagement and satisfaction, with residents exhibiting higher levels of both than commuters.

The findings indicated that the family home environment is not an impediment to academic engagement, and that there is not one model of preference for students regarding housing. Investigating the characteristics of commuter and resident students is warranted, including expectations regarding academic and social activities. Having a better understanding of why students are making their choice regarding housing, combined with research on how the residence environment impacts these and other student outcomes, would empower the PSE sector to better serve both populations.