Wanted: Legitimacy. School and Teachers as Seen by Young People: Opinions and Expectations

Abstract

This study aims to shed light on representations and perceptions of school and teachers. 560 young people, aged 18-25 and living in a region of Northern Italy, participated in the study. A quantitative survey method using structured questionnaire to obtain the data is employed. In questionnaire participants were asked about: a) evaluation of school experience; b) perceptions of school's effectiveness in reaching traditional goals; c) perceptions of school priorities, goals, problems, activities, responsibilities; d) perceptions of teachers’ professional characteristics; e) perceptions of teachers’ weaknesses. Results show that young people's overall evaluation of both school and teachers is generally positive; however findings suggest that the legitimation of school and teachers is in general weak, especially when we observe perceptions of priorities of school and teachers’ shortcomings. This study indicates the importance of studying young people's representations and perceptions towards school and teachers as the information collected would help administrators and stakeholders to plan and maintain higher level of school effectiveness, teachers’ motivation, authority and legitimacy.