Parental involvement in children’s education : an analysis of academic performance in the upper primary years

Abstract

This research “Parental Involvement in Children’s Education – An Analysis of Academic Performance in the Upper Primary Years”, aimed to explore what influence parental involvement or lack of it is having on children in the upper primary years. The study also analysed what initiatives schools are taking to involve parents and what types of relationships are present between teachers and parents. Moreover, research which was carried out was also aimed at determining what barriers are hindering parental involvement in today’s educational system. Six parents who are members of School Councils, three Heads of State Schools situated in the South of Malta and numerous teachers in charge of teaching upper primary classes participated in this study. Semi-Structured interviews were used with parents and Heads of Schools, whilst Questionnaires were used with teachers of upper primary classes. Following analysis of results, findings confirm that parental involvement does have an effect on the academic performance of children. Further results indicate parents’ aspirations for more meaningful participation in Schools. Home-school partnerships have been proven key to children’s academic success throughout this study. To conclude, the researcher put forward some recommendations to further improve parental involvement in today’s education.