2006 - Volume 29, Number 10
Editor, Micki M. Caskey, Ph.D., Portland State University
Similarities and Differences in Students' and Parents' Perceptions of the Transition from Middle School to High School
Joshua S. Smith
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN Rachel Feldwisch
Eastwood Middle School
Indianapolis, IN Amy Abell
Indiana University
Bloomington, IN | 
Complete Article |
Abstract
The study examined students' and parents' perceptions of the transition from middle school to high school in a large public school district in the Midwest. Mean comparisons of student and parent responses to the Perceptions of Transition Survey revealed similarities and differences in academic, social, and organizational areas. Students looked forward to making new friends and having a voice in selecting academic courses. Parents were concerned about social and safety issues, while students worried about too much homework and organizational issues such as getting lost. The findings can be used to help the school district evaluate the effectiveness of its transition materials and programming.
ISSN 1084-8959