Opinions of teachers and students on free dress code applications

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess free dress code in schools from the perspective of students and teachers. Some high schools and secondary schools in Kilis and Gaziantep were chosen via stratified sampling and categorized based on socio-economic levels. Data were collected from 500 students chosen from 10 high schools and 15 secondary schools and 25 teachers. A scale and a questionnaire were used for collecting data from the students while a semi-structured interview form was designed for collecting data from the teachers. Using both quantitative and qualitative methods, survey model was employed as a quantitative method, and case study design was employed as a qualitative method. Based on some common views expressed by the students in the present study, it can be said that the decision on the implementation of free dress code has resulted in security gap in schools, increased school expenses, and possibly has had impacts on attendance-absence in schools in addition to psychological and socio-economical impacts. The teachers, on the other hand, think in general that the decision on the implementation of free dress code in schools is not an effective application.