A public survey has been launched by the Commission of Investigation into the Handling of Historical Child Sexual Abuse in Schools.
The questionnaire marks the beginning of the Commission's work and is the first stage of public engagement.
The commission was established to examine the handling of concerns relating to child sexual abuse in schools between 1927 and 2013.
It followed a scoping inquiry which resulted in allegations of abuse and highlighted the need for an independent investigation.
Mr Justice Michael McGrath was appointed as head of the Commission of Investigation in July last year.
The public survey will assist the team in identifying themes, patterns and experiences relevant to its investigation.
It is intended for people whose experiences or knowledge relate to schools, including primary or national schools, secondary schools, community schools and comprehensive schools. It covers both fee-paying and non-fee-paying schools.
Special schools are also included. However, industrial and reformatory schools are not generally part of the Commission's remit.
People who experienced historical child sexual abuse in a school or related to a school, as well as others with relevant information, are invited to take part.
The questionnaire is open to survivors who were sexually abused as children in a school, or in circumstances related to a school, between 1927 and 2013.
Family members can complete the survey on behalf of people who experienced sexual abuse but who are now deceased or on behalf of those who cannot be supported to participate themselves.
It is also open to people with "relevant knowledge of concerns" relating to sexual abuse in schools, including teachers, former pupils and others who may have witnessed abuse, been aware of concerns or been involved in reporting them.
Survivors and people with relevant information who are living abroad have also been invited to take part.
The survey will inform the Commission's selection of sample cases for investigation.
In a statement, it said the investigation would focus on how concerns about sexual abuse were handled, including whether there were failures to protect children.
The support service for adult survivors of child sexual abuse and their families, One in Four, will provide independent support to people taking part in the survey or those who need help doing so.
One in Four has pointed out that contacting the organisation does not commit anyone to completing the survey.
CEO Deirdre Kenny said when sexual abuse happens in a school setting, and a child is not seen, heard or believed, it can deeply damage their trust in the adults and institutions meant to protect them.
"This can make coming forward, even many years later, feel difficult. That is why people need time, clear information and independent support to decide for themselves whether taking part is right for them."
The survey will be available on the Commission's website from today.
For independent participation support contact One in Four on (01) 611 4654, Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm or email coi@oneinfour.ie