Parental Engagement in School and Educational Programmes for Immigrant Learners

Abstract

This chapter explores the dynamics of parental involvement in immigrant learners' education with specific focus on areas of involvement, possible challenges, and strategic ways of mitigation against such challenges. Parental support may take a variety of ways including learning activities at home, family involvement at school, school outreach programs that engage families such as volunteerism and supportive parenting activities. In this endeavor, challenges such as language barrier, culture conflicts, teachers' perceptions of parents and learners, literacy levels of the immigrant parents, curriculum diversities, as well as unavailability of resources are likely to arise. Mitigating strategies explored in this chapter include forums for educators and immigrant parents, training for parents on effective communication and school policies, as well as regular evaluation of parental support programs. This information is critical for educators and policy makers since it illuminates factors affecting the partnerships between schools and home environments for immigrant learners.