Adaptive Strategies Against Barriers to Parents' Math Support: Leveraging Latinx Parents' Cultural Funds of Knowledge

• In Event: Parents and Families as Socializers of Student Cognition and Motivation

Abstract

Latinx parents are highly involved in middle-school students’ education but face barriers to involvement in subjects like math. Following sociocultural and ecological perspectives, this study explored the barriers Latinx parents faced in supporting students’ math learning and the adaptive strategies they employed to overcome barriers. Thematic analyses of interviews from 13 Latinx parents uncovered ecologically relevant barriers (e.g., limited knowledge, technological problems) and adaptive strategies encompassing knowledge-building and using available resources. Analyses of linkages between barriers and strategies revealed the primacy of parents working with students and seeking help to overcome barriers. Findings underscore the utility of leveraging parents’ funds of knowledge to understand not just the needs of Latinx families but also the assets they already possess.

Authors

• Nestor Tulagan, University of California - Irvine

• Stephanie Soto-Lara, University of California - Irvine

• Perla Ramos Carranza, University of California - Irvine

• Kayla Puente, University of California - Irvine

• Alessandra Pantano, University of California - Irvine

• Sandra D. Simpkins, University of California - Irvine