Quality beyond Professionalism. Insights into German All-Day Schools

The research project “LAKTAT – Non-Professionals in German All-Day Schools: Qualifications, Orientations, Institutional Integration” examines the role and impact of nonprofessional staff in all-day schools, focusing on their pedagogical orientations and organizational integration. The study explores critical questions: How does a sense of belonging influence knowledge about the quality of after-school activities? What factors contribute to a sense of belonging? How do staff cope with the lack of belonging? A mixed-methods design was employed in the research, integrating quantitative data from Sub-study A and network analyses from Sub-study B. Sub-study A evaluated the socio-spatial level of educational personnel, taking into account demographic characteristics and the influence of belonging on quality knowledge. Sub-study B examines cooperation and networking among staff. The findings indicate that engagement is a significant predictor of quality knowledge, while age is negatively correlated with it. Work experience and full-time employment do not have a significant impact on engagement. These findings underscore the importance of fostering a sense of community and engagement among non-professional staff to improve the quality of afterschool programs. The study provides valuable insights into the need for multi-professional collaboration and institutional support to improve educational outcomes in all-day schools.