Parent Leadership: Co-Constructing Community Deliberation Through Collaborative Inquiry

• In Event: 16.058 - Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: 16.058-16 - Parent Empowerment: Leadership, Presence, and Advocacy

Abstract

From three years of parent leadership work we report the following solidified points supporting parent leader knowledge production and possession: (1) the importance of participatory and collaborative structure; (2) the benefits of modeling and practice opportunities; and (3) an appreciation for shared expectations and desired outcomes. The capacity building opportunities for parents have driven this research as much as any other stated outcome. Our understanding of dynamic agency operates as a kind of theory of change in our ongoing work with parents. Community-based and participatory methods were utilized. Data sources include participatory engagement with focus groups, debriefing sessions and extensive member checking. The significance of this study is creating of a context, process and outcomes that Parent Leaders’ co-constructed.

Authors

• Paige M. Bray, University of Hartford

• Erin M. Kenney, University of New Hampshire