Effective schools as open systems: understanding their key characteristics and role in bullying prevention

This report examines the idea of school effectiveness by breaking it down into three key perspectives, starting from a general framework and progressing to more detailed aspects. It begins by viewing schools as open systems, emphasizing the significance of inputs, internal processes, and outputs. This systems-based perspective offers a foundational understanding of how schools function effectively. The report then draws on four major studies that identify essential features commonly found in high-performing schools. These features provide useful benchmarks for school leaders to evaluate their institutions. Lastly, the report investigates the link between school effectiveness and bullying, arguing that strategies to prevent bullying should be a fundamental component of how school performance is measured.