"Parental choice in education has become a focus of political interest. This important book uses research findings to discuss what parents want, and whether they see themselves as consumers of education, in a lively, readable and thought provoking way. Anyone interested in the role of parents in schools would benefit from reading it." <i>Barbera Tizard, Institute of Education, University of London</i> <p>"Parents have become increasingly important in education during the last few years, and this valuable book gives a full picture of their views and experiences in important aspects of curriculum and testing. I recommend it to anyone who wants to see what parents really think about their children's education." <i>Professor E. C. Wragg, University of Exeter</i></p>
Parents and Their Children's Schools is the first book to tackle this important issue in depth and will be important reading for all those involved in education. It presents the findings of a unique research study which looked directly at these questions. The study followed 150 children through Key Stage One (5-7 years) of the National Curriculum, culminating in the first standardized assessments of 7 year olds ever to take place in the UK. The book presents the views of their parents and teachers, obtained through regular in-depth interviews at crucial stages during this period. As such, it provides important insights into the changes currently underway in schools and their effects on parents. In a broader context, it makes a major contribution to our understanding of the fundamental relationship between parents and schools.
1. A New Role for Parents.
2. How Headteachers See Parents.
3. Interviewing Parents.
4. Parents as Consumers.
5. Parents' Choice of School.
6. Parents' Satisfaction with Schools.
7. Parents and the National Curriculum.
8. Parents' Knowledge about School.
9. Parents and Assessment.
10. Giving Parents a Voice.
References.
Index.
Parents and Their Children's Schools is the first book to tackle this important issue in depth and will be important reading for all those involved in education. It presents the findings of a unique research study which looked directly at these questions. The study followed 150 children through Key Stage One (5-7 years) of the National Curriculum, culminating in the first standardized assessments of 7 year olds ever to take place in the UK. The book presents the views of their parents and teachers, obtained through regular in-depth interviews at crucial stages during this period. As such, it provides important insights into the changes currently underway in schools and their effects on parents. In a broader context, it makes a major contribution to our understanding of the fundamental relationship between parents and schools.