The Varying Composition of Teacher and Student Perceptions of School Climate: The Importance of Contextual Factors in the Middle School Experience

• In Event: Roundtable Session 53
  In Roundtable Session: Investigating School Climate in Middle School Roundtable

Abstract

This study examined student and teacher perceptions pertaining to school climate at a large, urban middle school in Illinois. Findings indicated that there was student perception of a high level of control of their social behaviors. In relation to academics, there was a pervasive student perception associated with learning; particularly in the area of a lack of a challenging curriculum. Further, there was a demand for extra-curricular activities by students, which was contradictory to teachers’ views. Overall, results suggested that teachers had a multi-dimensional perspective of school climate, while students had a one-dimensional perspective.

Author

• David A. Walker, Northern Illinois University