Student Culture Survey Validation: Creating a Tool to Support Culture Transformation and Equitable Learning Experiences

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 57
  In Roundtable Session: Surveys in Educational Research

Abstract

The hypothesized structure of the Student Culture Survey includes six elements of school culture: school connectedness, learning in a project-based learning (PBL) environment, discipline, peer relationships, adult relationships, and college and career ready. Using confirmatory factor analysis, it was found that the hypothesized structure is not supported by observed survey data from 3,959 respondents. Results suggested that the hypothesized structure was not extremely inaccurate, requiring only slight modification to correct the survey. Examination of item design suggest that interpretation of hypothesized school connectedness and college and career ready items was problematic. A new construct within school connectedness emerged, school pride. Additionally, many of the college and career readiness items actually aligned with adult relationships.

Authors

• Liz Bergeron, New Tech Network

• Barb Bennie, University of Wisconsin - LaCrosse

• Beth Boesche-Taylor, New Tech Network

• Amil A Gehrke, New Tech Network