Rethinking social inclusion: a student-led investigation into the role of college canteens as social hubs

Abstract Social inclusion in colleges has received increased attention over the years, with researchers examining how it shapes instruction, student lives, and college environments. However, despite the research volume, investigations on how social inclusion manifests in various campus spaces have been scarce. Additionally, student-led investigations and experiences have had a minimal impact on current discourses and policies. This means there is a need for research to investigate the role of college spaces in promoting social inclusion while giving students a voice. This study bridges the gap by assessing the role of canteens as socially inclusive spaces. The study was led by six students enrolled in a research methodology course and leveraged learning analytics. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered through a questionnaire completed by 407 students in 76 universities in China, and semi-structured interviews with 30 students were analyzed to determine whether their canteens foster social inclusion. Data analysis revealed that most students hold a low impression of college canteens’ ability to foster social inclusion by promoting social interaction and community building (SIC), meeting their varied dietary preferences and needs (DP), and ensuring culinary diversity (CUD). To reverse this, the students suggested multiple social activities, physical environment improvements, communal experiences, awareness and education, and feedback mechanisms that could transform canteens into social hubs. The findings have practical, pedagogical, and policy implications for social inclusion on college campuses.