How do children with different levels of self-concept perceive their school activities?

The study examined children’s perceptions regarding their daily school activities. A total of 33 children aged 11 and 12 with different levels of self-concept were interviewed. The results showed that children’s contentment regarding different school activities was based on fun, enjoyment and satisfaction of their curiosity. Results also showed that children with a high level of total self-concept experienced higher levels of contentment in some of their school subjects, significantly higher in two particularly demanding subjects – mathematics and project - than their counterparts with a low level of total self-concept. Children with a high physical ability self-concept appeared to enjoy physical education and sports more than the other children. In addition, the children appeared to judge the level of importance of school subjects according to their educational, health or pragmatic value, both present and future. They were well aware of the educational value of schooling. However, the level of importance was reduced greatly in some children's eyes when the subjects carried little or not enough fun and enjoyment, particularly children with very low self-concept scores. This group appeared to be influenced by the intrinsic reward of the subjects rather than external benefits.