Educational Policy

Purpose: The size of a school is a crucial factor influencing educational outcomes, yet its impact on student participation and the sense of community remains complex and multifaceted. This study aims to explore how different school sizes affect these dimensions, focusing on qualitative aspects of student experiences and institutional dynamics to provide a deeper understanding of the educational landscape. Methodology: A qualitative research design was adopted, utilizing semi-structured interviews to collect data from 29 participants, including students, teachers, and school administrators from various sized schools. Theoretical saturation was reached to ensure a comprehensive exploration of the themes. Data were analyzed using NVivo software to facilitate thematic analysis and ensure systematic handling of the interview transcripts. Findings: Five main themes were identified: Student Engagement, Sense of Community, Learning Environment, Administrative Influence, and Challenges and Barriers. Sub-themes such as Academic Participation, Support Networks, Classroom Dynamics, and Policy Making illustrated the specific ways in which school size impacts educational practices and student perceptions. Smaller schools were generally found to foster a stronger sense of community and engagement, whereas larger schools provided more diverse opportunities but faced challenges in maintaining a personalized learning environment. Conclusion: The study concludes that school size significantly influences the educational environment, affecting everything from student engagement to administrative strategies. While smaller schools excel in creating a cohesive community, they often struggle with resource limitations and opportunity diversity. Larger schools, on the other hand, offer extensive resources and opportunities but may lack the close-knit community feel that enhances student engagement and sense of belonging.

Purpose: This study aims to explore the professional development needs of rural teachers to identify targeted strategies that can enhance their professional growth and effectiveness. Methodology: This qualitative study involved 31 rural teachers, utilizing semi-structured interviews to gather data. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using NVivo software to ensure thematic accuracy and depth. Theoretical saturation was achieved to ensure comprehensive coverage of the topics discussed. The study's approach was grounded in qualitative methodologies, with an emphasis on capturing the lived experiences and insights of the participants. Findings: Four main themes were identified: Access to Resources, Professional Growth, Challenges and Barriers, and Suggested Improvements. Access to Resources highlighted issues like unreliable internet and inadequate professional materials. Professional Growth focused on the importance of collaborative learning and skill development. Challenges and Barriers included financial and geographic constraints, while Suggested Improvements called for policy reforms, infrastructure development, and community engagement to support rural teachers. Conclusion: The study highlights the complex challenges rural teachers face in accessing and benefiting from professional development opportunities. It suggests that tailored interventions are necessary to address these unique needs effectively. By focusing on specific improvements such as enhanced infrastructure, policy support, and community involvement, stakeholders can significantly impact the professional lives of rural teachers.

Purpose: This qualitative study explores the perspectives of teachers on integrating socio-political issues into classroom discussions, aiming to understand the challenges and strategies employed by educators in various educational contexts. The objective was to illuminate the factors influencing effective teaching practices concerning socio-political topics, thereby informing educational policies and teacher training programs. Methodology: This study utilized a qualitative research design, with data collected exclusively through semi-structured interviews involving 30 teachers from different educational levels and geographic locations. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure a diversity of experiences and perspectives. Data analysis was performed using NVivo software to facilitate thematic analysis, ensuring theoretical saturation was achieved to validate the consistency and comprehensiveness of the findings. Findings: The analysis revealed three main themes: Teacher Preparedness, Student Engagement, and Institutional Support. Under Teacher Preparedness, subthemes included Training and Professional Development, Personal Comfort with Topics, and Curriculum Integration, indicating the need for improved resources and training. Student Engagement was characterized by varying levels of participation and the impact of classroom dynamics on learning, highlighting the influence of teaching methods and environment. Institutional Support emerged as critical, with subthemes like Administrative Guidance and Resources emphasizing the need for stronger institutional backing and adequate resources to support teachers. Conclusion: The study underscores the complexities of discussing socio-political issues in educational settings and the pivotal role of teachers in facilitating these discussions. Effective socio-political education requires comprehensive teacher training, supportive institutional frameworks, and resources that together foster an environment conducive to open and critical discussions. Addressing these factors is crucial for preparing students to participate thoughtfully in democratic processes.