Profiles of School and Classroom Climates for Civic Education: A Cross-National Analysis

• In Event: Poster Session 9
  In Poster Session: Research in Social Studies Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine profiles of attitudes toward school and classroom climate, considering students’ opportunities to engage in open and respectful discussion, their ability to participate meaningfully in school activities, and the quality of relationships with teachers and students. Using data from the 2009 IEA Civic and Citizenship Education Study, five profiles were identified. While 80% of students fell into two profiles characterized by similar scores across all measures, the remaining 20% had more complex profiles characterized by unique patterns of peer relationships and/or opportunities for discussion or decision-making in classrooms. The most positive outcomes were found in the profile with most positive perceptions of school and class climates, if not the most positive peer relationships.

Authors

• Carolyn Elizabeth Barber, University of Missouri - Kansas City

• Gary Homana, Towson University

• Judith V. Torney-Purta, University of Maryland - College Park