Mallozzi, R., & Drewery, D. (2019). Creating inclusive co-op workplaces: Insights from LGBTQ+ students. International Journal of Work-Integrated Learning, 20(3), 219-228.
The purpose of this grounded theory study was to explore the notion of inclusion from the perspective of LGBTQ+ co-op students in the context of their work term experiences, including searching for work and during the work term. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight LGBTQ+ students who had at least one previous work term experience at a Canadian university. Analyses of transcripts revealed several themes pertaining to how students navigate the recruitment process, feelings about inclusion at work, contributions of interpersonal dynamics (with supervisors and co-workers) to those feelings, and the role of co-op administrators in enhancing inclusion. The study identifies directions for future research in this area and suggests some strategies for creating inclusive co-op workplaces.