Objectives: The aim of the study was to develop, validate, and determine the factor structure of a questionnaire for assessing students’ connection to school. Method: By using literature review and experts opinion a questionnaire comprising 21 questions was developed. 1204 students were chosen through multiple steps random sampling (levels proportional to size) from different regions of Tehran and completed the questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS and LISREL software's and through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, principle component analysis, promax rotation, confirmation factor analysis, fitness indexes, and Cronbach’s alpha. Results: Principle component analysis revealed that School Connection Questionnaire (SCQ) consists of four factors: belonging, engagement, commitment, and peer relation. However, according to confirmatory factor analysis, the fourth factor could not be confirmed with the data. Cronbach’s alphas were 0.84, 0.83, 0.81, 0.58, and 0.50 for all parts of the questionnaire, belonging, engagement, commitment, and peer relation respectively. Conclusion: SCQ could be used as a valid instrument for assessing emotions, evaluations and the behavioral pattern of students toward school.
Type of Study:
Original Research |
Subject:
Psychiatry and Psychology Received: 2010/04/4 | Published: 2010/04/15