The Impact of Students’ School Belonging in the Context of National and International Assessments

Abstract

This study examines school belonging as an important concept in modern education, given its association with students’ academic achievement and social behavior, as well as its role in preparing students to participate in national and international assessments, such as the PISA and TIMSS tests. The study aims to explore the relationship between school belonging and students’ performance in these assessments and to analyze their role in strengthening students’ connection with their schools and educational environments. The study discusses the impact of national and international assessments on school belonging before and after their administration, as well as the factors that contribute to strengthening this sense of belonging, with particular emphasis on collective identity, positive behavior, and the role of the school community and teachers in motivating students. It also examines the challenges schools face in fostering school belonging, including the role of teachers and their professional licenses, and analyzes the practical implications of assessments and their relationship to students’ engagement with school. In addition, the study highlights the importance of providing an educational environment that encourages cooperation, participation, a sense of responsibility, and positive engagement in school life. The study concludes that strengthening school belonging contributes to improving students’ engagement with the educational environment and supporting their performance in national and international assessments. It also emphasizes the importance of developing a supportive school environment, activating academic and extracurricular activities and group projects, and enhancing student participation. The study further recommends developing teachers’ skills in modern educational strategies, updating teacher licensure in line with technological and educational requirements, providing the necessary academic and social support to motivate students to participate and excel, and strengthening school–family partnerships to support sustained belonging and academic achievement.