Name
Student Perceptions of On-Campus Foodscapes at a Canadian University
Date & Time
Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 10:15 AM - 10:30 AM
Description
Post-secondary campus foodscapes can directly impact student perceptions of food security. These are critical spaces for many post-secondary students who are frequently on campus and rely on these facilities for nutrition and daily sustenance. With food security continuing to be a concern among the post-secondary student population, this study was conducted to assess students’ engagement with, and perceptions of, their on-campus foodscape. Students at Western University in London Ontario were invited to participate in an online survey and potential follow-up interview regarding their on-campus food consumption behaviors, and perceptions of these spaces. Survey results revealed that the majority of on-campus students had meal plans, and purchased on-campus food daily. In contrast, those living off-campus were less likely to have purchased a meal plan, and tend to purchase food on-campus less frequently. Through talking with students, certain food outlets were mentioned more often than others, and some in more positive terms than others. When students were asked about their perceptions on the four pillars of food security - availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability - some commonalities were noted. Many students noted affordability concerns through discussions about strategies they used to obtain food, and tried to make sense of the issue by comparing on- and off-campus food prices. This is critical information that post-secondary institutions should be acknowledging if they want to improve student food security. Students should be the primary focus of such institutions, so understanding and catering to their wants and needs as it relates to campus foodscapes has the potential to not only improve student food security, but also other aspects of student life and perceptions of their institution overall.
Location Name
Mackenzie (ME) 4236
Session Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract ID
179
Speaker Name
Sara Clarke
Speaker Organization
Western University
Session Name
CS152 Geographies of Food Security and Farming