Abstract:
Utilising the methodology of portraiture this study set out to explore interactions of diverse
students in a South African university residence. The purpose of the study was to understand
how students from different racial and ethnic backgrounds interpret their own experiences as
they had to share their personal space with people who had previously been seen as the outgroup.
The study was qualitative in nature and used a case study research design. Datagathering
techniques included semistructured interviews, observations, field notes and
researcher?s journal. Critical race theory and contact theory were the theoretical frameworks
of this study. Data was analysed by means of content analysis. Findings of this study were
fivefold: first, institutional practice plays an important role in facilitating contact between
diverse students. Second, an environment that promotes social interaction is important in
reducing stereotypes and prejudices. Third, continuous communication between diverse
students minimised misunderstandings and promoted understanding and sympathy. Fourth,
the participants did not attribute the challenges they experienced in their unit to racial or
cultural differences. Fifth, participants did not segregate themselves exclusively from racial
others. However, evidence reveals lack of interaction between some of the black female
students.
