The Role of School Culture in Creating a Positive Learning Environment in Junior High Schools
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64780/jole.v2i2.238Keywords:
Character Development, Junior High School, Learning Environment, School Culture, Student MotivationAbstract
Background: School culture plays an essential role in creating a positive learning environment in junior high schools. It includes the values, norms, procedures, and daily habits practiced by students, teachers, school leaders, and staff. A supportive school culture can encourage collaboration, respect for diversity, effective communication, student motivation, and positive character development.
Aim: This study aims to examine the role of school culture in creating a positive learning environment and to understand how positive cultural practices support students’ learning motivation, active participation, character development, and academic achievement in junior high schools.
Method: This study employed a qualitative research approach. Data were collected through direct observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation at five junior high schools: SMPN 1 Golewa Were, SMPN 1 Golewa Barat, SMPN 1 Jerebu’u, SMPN 3 Golewa Selatan, and SMPN 6 Golewa Selatan. The study focused on the implementation of positive school practices, particularly the 3S culture—Senyum, Salam, dan Sapa (Smile, Greet, and Salute)—and school literacy activities.
Results: The findings show that a supportive school culture creates a safe, friendly, respectful, and conducive learning environment. The implementation of the 3S culture and literacy activities increased students’ motivation, confidence, active participation, discipline, responsibility, creativity, and cooperation. Positive school culture also strengthened relationships among students, teachers, and the surrounding community while reducing negative behaviour in the school environment.
Conclusion: Positive school culture is crucial for improving the quality of the learning environment in junior high schools. Strengthening consistent cultural practices, including the 3S culture and literacy activities, can support academic achievement, character formation, and harmonious social relationships. Therefore, teachers and school leaders should continuously develop and evaluate strategies for sustaining a positive school culture.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Maria Carmelita Tali Wangge , Maria Roswita Dhiu , Veronika Selfiana Ytu, Ermelinda Watu, Albertus Roju, Yohanes Debrito Dhosa
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