Validation of International School Climate Surveys in Slovakia

Abstract

This paper summarizes the first pilot research results from the study of school climate in Slovak primary and secondary schools. The research was conducted as part of the Cross-Cultural School Climate Study project using the Georgia school climate surveys, adapted to Slovak conditions. Participants were 832 primary and secondary students, 125 school personnel and 614 parents. Results indicate overall positive ratings of school climate across all participant groups. Students provided the highest ratings in the domains of character, peer social support and school safety. The lowest ratings were reported in the domain of cultural acceptance. School personnel provided the most positive ratings of school climate among the participant groups, followed by parents. Both participant groups reported the highest ratings for school safety and the lowest ratings for parent involvement.