192 pages
228mm x 145mm
ISBN-10: 1 85856 325 9
ISBN-13: 978 1 85856 325 1
December 2004
'Sophisticated analyses of parental involvement theory, practice and legislation abound in this edited volume by Gill Crozier and Diane Reay, and its publication couldn't be more timely given the social and political contexts in which we find ourselves across the globe.' - Gender in Education
This book collects together significant research on the involvement of parents and carers in their children's education. The findings stress the importance of dialogue and action between teachers and parents so parents can actively share in the decisions about their children's educational experience. The contributors explore the challenges this presents for both the teachers and the parents.
Participatory democracy at grass roots level is hugely complex, especially in diverse society. This book seeks to develop the empirical and theoretical understanding of parent-school relationships and participatory democracy. Studies of aspects of this problematic dynamic provide approaches for constructive policy and practice. New research into home-school relations, for example, will support teachers in developing their strategies for securing parent participation. Key factors that affect parents' participation are identified, such as the experiences of mothers, and issues relating to social class and race, and these inform what the parents' role in school should be. What is feasible, what is appropriate and what is desirable? Parent Participation offers some answers.
The book is for teachers, policy makers, school governors, and for local authority advisers, councillors and practitioners. It is also important reading for students of teaching, child development, social policy, sociology, and gender studies.
The contributors include the editors and Miriam E David, Jane Martin, Jane Ribbens McCarthy, Barbara Walker and Maggie Maclure, Anne Phillips, Heidi Safia Mirza and Carol Vincent.
Dr Gill Crozier is Professor of Education, University of Sunderland and author of Parents and Schools, published by Trentham.
Dr Diane Reay is Professor of Sociology of Education, Institute of Policy Studies in Education London Metropolitan University.
