Aspects of online college science courses that alleviate and exacerbate undergraduate depression

Depression is a top mental health concern among college students, yet there is a lack of research exploring how online college science courses can exacerbate or alleviate their depression. We surveyed 2,175 undergraduates at a large research-intensive institution about the severity of their depression in large-enrollment online science courses. The survey also explored aspects of online science courses that exacerbate or alleviate depression and we used regression analyses to assess whether demographics predicted responses. Over 50% of undergraduates reported experiencing depression and LGBTQ+ students, financially unstable students, and lower division students were more likely to experience severe rather than mild depression compared to their counterparts. Students reported difficulty building relationships and struggling to perform well online as aspects of online science courses that exacerbated their depression and the flexible nature of online courses and caring instructors as aspects of online courses that alleviated their depression. This study provides insight into how instructors can create more inclusive online learning environments for students with depression.

Automated summary

Depression is a major concern among college students, and this study investigates how online college science courses can influence depression. The survey of 2,175 undergraduates reveals that over 50% experience depression, with LGBTQ+ students, financially unstable students, and lower division students being more prone to severe depression. Students report difficulty building relationships and performing well online as factors that exacerbate depression, while the flexible nature of online courses and caring instructors alleviate depression.