College Student Views on Free Expression and Campus Speech 2024

This report titled 'College Student Views on Free Expression and Campus Speech 2024' is part of the Knight Foundation's ongoing research series that examines college students' perspectives on the First Amendment and free expression since 2016. The study aims to capture the evolving attitudes of students regarding free speech, particularly in the context of recent national debates surrounding contentious issues. The findings indicate a significant decline in students' confidence regarding the security of their free speech rights, with a notable increase in discomfort related to speech on campus. The report details that while students value free speech, many express concerns about the impact of speech on campus dynamics, particularly regarding race, gender, and political expression. Additionally, the study highlights the tension between promoting free expression and protecting students from harmful speech. It also notes a growing skepticism among students about the role of social media in facilitating productive dialogue. The report serves as a resource for university leaders and researchers to better understand student perspectives on these critical issues.