The Role of Parental Involvement in the Education of Secondary School Children in Barbados: An Examination of Family and School Context in Classroom Motivation

• In Event: Roundtable Session 8
  In Roundtable Session: International Perspectives on Parent Involvement

Abstract

The role of parental involvement in children’s education has become a central issue in educational policy and research. Thus, the purpose of this study examined students’ perceptions of their family and school contexts in relation to their classroom motivation in high and low performing secondary schools in Barbados. The study utilized a cross sectional comparative survey research design. Participants were comprised of 313 students It also included 30 participants (parents, teachers and students) for three separate focus groups. Findings from this study can serve as a blueprint for family involvement initiatives in the Barbados school system, specifically in secondary schools by offering a cultural perspective not yet represented in the literature.

Authors

• David Graham, Coppin State University

• Gerunda B. Hughes, Howard University