The perception of Form 5 students and teachers of factors which lead to the completion of compulsory schooling

Abstract

This study investigates Form five students' and teachers' opinions about the completion of compulsory schooling in State schools, in Malta. There is a legal obligation by virtue of the Education Act 1988 that all students remain in education till the age of 16. The aim of this study is to identify and better understand some of the factors which support or hinder completion of compulsory schooling. Although the Ministry for Education and Employment is currently taking actions to increase completion rates, Malta has one of the highest rates of drop outs amongst EU member states. It is however noted that results will not be achieved in the short-term but in the medium to long-term. This study makes use of a mixed method approach for data collection; including an online survey and a focus group. Students from each college were asked to participate in the survey. Students provided their opinions about factors that contribute to the completion of compulsory schooling. Teachers also provided their opinions about factors that help students to complete compulsory schooling. In addition, teachers provided their suggestions about conditions that help them work better with students; including class size and the content of teaching. This study demonstrates that this phenomenon of early school leaving (ESL) is multi-factorial; which include personal, institutional and social factors. These findings are consistent to others found in studies both locally and abroad. Findings demonstrate the complexity of completion of compulsory schooling and efforts which need to be exerted from various sectors amongst the society to further improve completion rates.