A comparative analysis of program offerings in the larger and smaller regional high schools of Newfoundland

Davis, Hudson H. (1968) A comparative analysis of program offerings in the larger and smaller regional high schools of Newfoundland. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This investigation presents a comparative analysis of program offerings in the larger and smaller Regional High Schools of Newfoundland. A basic assumption of the study was that a balanced program of academic, cultural, physical, and social activities is necessary for high school students today; and, that this is a realistic program for the larger and the smaller Regional High Schools of the province. The subject areas investigated were English, mathematics, science, art, music, physical education, and student activities. -- In the conduct of the study the investigator visited the seven largest and the seven smallest Regional High Schools. Data were obtained through interviews with teachers and principals, using an interview schedule adapted from the Evaluative Criteria of the National Study of Secondary School Evaluation, an American organization. The schedule contained almost a thousand checklist items, and 169 criteria evaluations. A median test was applied to each of these evaluative items to determine whether there was any statistical significance between the ratings assigned the larger and the smaller high schools. -- Underlying the whole study was the general hypothesis that the larger schools would be assigned higher ratings on the evaluative instrument than the smaller schools. The findings of the study confirmed the general hypothesis, in that on eighty-two items a significant difference was evident. When large school median evaluations were compared with small school medians the difference appeared more pronounced, as 147 of these ratings favoured the larger schools. The areas showing least difference were art, mathematics, music, and student activities. Greatest differences were evident in the programs for science and physical education. -- The findings lead to one general conclusion: to the extent that higher ratings on the evaluative criteria may indicate superiority of one program over another, the larger Regional High Schools of Newfoundland offer a better program than do the smaller Regional High Schools. -- The most important recommendations arising from the study are: (1) that future consolidation of high schools be such that the schools will be large enough to provide a differentiated and balanced program of studies; and that, where possible, smaller high schools which are presently existing in close proximity to one another be consolidated; (2) that where small schools must continue to exist, the program in these schools be supplemented by all available means of modern educational technology, and by the provision of visiting specialist teachers; (3) since ratings on the study were generally fairly low, research should be carried out by a team of curriculum experts to determine the extent to which Newfoundland high schools are meeting the educational requirements of the province.

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