This monograph discusses a study of the quality of school life of students in comprehensive high schools in Quebec. Two methods were used to compile data: a survey of 30 secondary schools involving 2,000 students from 15 large and 15 small settings, and an ethnographic study of one large and one small school. Student attitudes toward school both as individuals and as a group were considered. The survey measured student attitudes toward teachers, their commitment to school work, and their satisfaction with school. Findings of the enthnographic study indicated two major similarities between large and small schools. First, regardless of school size, teachers tend to direct classes while students act as passive learners. Second, student participation in school activities both in and out of class is extremely limited. The study concludes that both survey and ethnographic methods can be used successfully together to gain insight into complex social phenomena. (Author/LD)