Date of Award

8-1998

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Teacher Education

First Advisor

Jarene Fluckiger

Second Advisor

Thomas Lorsbach

Third Advisor

Kenneth Smith

Abstract

This study investigated the sense of belonging as perceived by two third grade students. Two informants in a small midwestem public school were used in this qualitative study. Data was collected through interviews, observations, informant journals, and a researcher reflection journal. It was discovered that these informants believe that a sense of humor, class participation, compliments, and non-verbal facial expressions contribute to a child feeling a sense of belonging in the classroom. Further research needs to be completed to determine other factors that contribute to a child’s sense of belonging in the classroom, as well as other settings within the school. Research also needs to be completed regarding compliments as a component of a child’s sense of belonging.

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