Factors associated with successful implementation of character education in small schools

The school experience is made up of many facets, programs, services, activities, and opportunities that have played a role in shaping who we are. Everything from challenging physics experiments, reading tests, and mathematics assignments, to spelling bees, extracurricular activities, band lessons, and community service all serve a purpose in education. The question of what is the purpose of schooling is often a hotly contested one. Most would agree that the purpose is to educate, but, of course, that raises the question: what does it mean to educate?; A qualitative study was designed to determine what are the internal and external factors associated with successful implementation of character education and assisting children in becoming caring, contributing, productive, and responsible citizens. The study conducted in three elementary schools used an accountability framework to help understand influences on teachers in implementing character education and the impact of those influences on practice.; This study found evidence that factors such as school culture, principal leadership, and a teacher's own sense of responsibility and accountability play a large role in influencing the implementation of successful character education in small schools. The study concluded by outlining the implications of the findings on policy, practice, and future research.