Meaningful Platforms for Student Voice in Vietnamese Schools: the Role of Student Media and School Communication

Abstract

Abstract Student voice is increasingly regarded as an important element in education at all levels. In the process of school governance, responding to this need and establishing multiple channels for students to express their opinions has become a strategic approach. However, beyond that, building forums through which students can have a genuinely meaningful voice is more important than ever at the present stage. This study examines whether the quality of communication and media platforms in schools promotes meaningful student voice in the Vietnamese context. The measurement model and structural model are analyzed using SmartPLS structural equation modeling. The empirical results concern the prevalence of the platforms, the extent to which students are heard and have influence, as well as the impact of Platform Quality on Meaningful Student Voice. The study contributes to student voice theory by shifting the focus from the presence to the quality of participation platforms, while emphasizing that students are able to express themselves and that their voices are heard, considered, and capable of bringing about change. Accordingly, the study suggests solutions to improve educational quality and enhance students' lives and quality of learning. Keywords: Student voice, platform quality, school communication, being heard