Parental Involvement and the Theory of Planned Behavior

摘要: Introduction The literature related to parents and schools is rife with articles that convey a convincing positive connection between parent involvement academic achievement (Henderson & Mapp, 2002), school attendance (Sheldon, 2007), graduation rates (Harvard Family Research Project, 2006), educational aspirations (Greenwood Hickman, 1991), classroom behavior (Cotton Wikeland, 2001), enrollment in more challenging curricula (Heymann, 2000), favorable attitudes towards 2002; Trusty, 1996; Astone McClanahan, 1991). Long term social financial benefits, such as improved health outcomes, decreased welfare dependence, reduced crime are also correlated increased parental (Haveman Wolfe, 1995). Augmenting these findings research indicates the earlier child's process begins, powerful effects 2001). Many of investigations parallel original observations Henderson Berla (1994), who reviewed 66 studies overwhelmingly concluded play crucial role instructional experiences their children. Although this conclusion may strike some mere "common sense," it important mention data represent than just correlation. There clear paths through which improves student success. A review suggests when parents/guardians involved, teachers give attention students, tend identify potential learning problems at stages, able coordinate efforts aid individual students provide family services, communities prioritize build maintain better physical facilities, recruit retain quality staff administration likely obtain new funding for after-school programs other innovative supports (Zill Nord, 1994; Epstein, 1995; Mediratta Fruchter, Thus, not an overstatement suggest "show up," they have enormous positively impact intellectual, emotional, development children, school, community. Hence, there perhaps no topic on greater agreement need education (Epstein, consensus associated range enhanced outcomes mirrored by legislative policies mandate increasingly specific, research-based involvement. In fact, first time history Elementary Secondary Education Act, definition designed facilitate practices. Most recently, NCLB outlined cascade district, state requirements intended involve ways close gap disadvantaged minority peers. Specifically, hope promote via shared accountability parents. Some provisions include "expanded public choice supplemental services eligible children low-performing schools, local plans sufficient flexibility address needs, building parents' capacity using effective practices improve own children's achievement" (U.S. Department Education, 1994). Connected well-intentioned simple message from former U.S. Secretary Rod Paige, states, "Schools can't without help parents" (Paige, 2002, p. A-13). Undoubtedly, vital success our schools. So, why aren't involved? rewards so clear. …