Policy and Research Issues: School Effectiveness

Policy Questions:

1. What aspects of school structure and environment are associated with positive student outcomes and school effectiveness?

   (a) Structural Issues

   • What is the influence of school size and structure on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of student body race/ethnicity and SES level on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of support services and extracurricular activities on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of type of school and affiliation on outcomes?

   (b) Environmental Issues

   • What is the influence of school climate as perceived by students, principals and teachers on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of the local community on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of principal and teacher autonomy on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of disciplinary climate on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of crime and safety features of the school on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of the degree of resource and support services on outcomes?

   (c) Academic Issues

   • What is the influence of the school's disciplinary climate on student outcomes?
   • What is the influence of curricular offerings and programs on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of time allocated for instruction on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of academic orientation on outcomes?
   • What is the influence of teacher quality and efficacy on outcomes?

2. What variables best discriminate between effective and ineffective schools?

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