Factors influencing school climate: an empirical study based on the TALIS principal survey

Abstract

AbstractTo explore the influencing factors of school climate, this paper used TALIS 2018 principal survey data and applied linear regression to examine the influence of three elements on school climate: external school environment and structure, principal personal characteristics, and principal leadership. According to the research targeting 198 principals from Shanghai secondary schools, all three aspects can influence the formation and development of school climate, with each influencing factor acting on different dimensions of school climate. These different paths are the mechanisms that influence the school climate in the education system. In addition, principal leadership plays a more important role than the other aspects in determining school climate. To create a school climate that is better suited to the development of all involved in the school, this paper offers suggestions on how to better select principals and improve their leadership skills.