Abstract:
The objective of this study was to assess the engagement of parents in their children’s
education in primary schools of Buno Bedele Zone. Descriptive design was used with both
quantitative and qualitative methods. Sixteen primary schools in eight cluster resource center
in four Woreda found in the Buno Bedele Zone were included in the study. A cluster sampling
technique was employed to select sample schools, teachers, parents and students for the
study. Accordingly, from 16 primary schools, 187 teachers, 128 students and 128 parents
were selected to provide data for the study. The instruments of data collection were
questionnaires, interview and focus group discussion. Then, the data gathered through
closed-ended questionnaires were analyzed quantitatively using frequency, percentage; mean
score and standard deviation while the data gathered through interviews focus group
discussion and open-ended questions were analyzed qualitatively through narration for the
purpose of triangulation. The findings of the study indicated there is low level of parents’
engagement in their children’s learning; low follow up of their children whether they
properly attend school or not and in guiding or helping their children in doing homework or
assignment. Regarding the practices of parents–teachers’ partnerships on students’ learning,
parent-teacher relation was poor; there is a limited flow of information from the school to
parent; schools didn’t invite parents to visit and give suggestions on teaching learning
process; parents were lacked clear information about their children’s academic progress
from the school. Regarding challenges that affect the parents’ engagement in their children’s
education, parents’ low awareness, low commitments of school leaders in implementation,
socio economic factors of parents and low educational level of parents were the major ones.
In general, as the finding of the study revealed that engagement of parents in their children’s
learning in the school and at home is not effective. Therefore, it is recommended that parents
had better support their children at home and in school; school principals had better work in
collaboration with Kebele education and training board and Parent teacher association;
conducting parent- School meeting regularly. Finally, Zone and Woreda education offices in
collaboration with school principals need to work efficiently to enhance awareness of
parents
