The Relationship Between Student Motivation and Parental Involvement in Mathematics and Science

• In Event: Role of Motivational Factors in Shaping Students’ Academic Behaviors and Achievement

Abstract

Parental involvement has many potential benefits for children’s academic work. This research examined the relationship between parental involvement and elementary and middle school children’s motivation in science and mathematics. Results showed that both parents and students valued both mathematics and science but they valued mathematics more than science. Also, the findings revealed parents and students felt that parents were supportive and helpful in both mathematics and science; however, they reported that they were more supportive in mathematics than science. Research shows that parent involvement and student motivation are both related to student achievement and hence should be supported and promoted.

Authors

• Judith A. Monsaas, University System of Georgia

• Beryl Ann Otumfuor, Fulton County Schools

• Rosalind Barnes Fowler, University System of Georgia