I’ve just been offered the opportunity to design a set of workshops that aims to increase parental investment in student’s learning. I’m really excited to be involved, and my research is already turning up lots of great ideas. For example, Rowe (1991 journal educational psychology) reports that children do best when parents play four key roles in their children’s learning:
- teachers (helping children as home),
- supporters (contributing their skills to the school),
- advocates (helping children receive fair treatment), and
- decision makers (participating in joint problem-solving with the school at every level).
I’m guessing that one of the biggest hurdles will be getting “buy in” from the parents and students involved. I’ll be taking inspiration from games and performance that appeals to all ages.