Sense of community

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.