Teacher-to-Parent Communication: What Parents Want from Alternative Educators

Author

Shelley A. Hoogers

Date of Award

3-2007

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

Department

Graduate Education

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine teacher-to-parent communication preferences among parents of students, grades 9-12, attending a rural Iowa alternative education program. Thirty-seven parents were chosen to participate in the study. Twenty volunteered to complete the Parent Communication Survey (PCS). Data analysis of the PCS indicated most parents preferred regular progress updates to be sent bi-weekly via U.S. mail. Parents preferred that teachers contact them about more specific issues via phone call home. Over half of parents surveyed said they would read a classroom newsletter and website. An analysis of parent comments yielded four themes: honesty, timeliness, sensitivity, and partnership. Knowledge of these trends will be used to improve communication with parents, develop parental involvement programs, and guide future research.

Comments

Action Research Report Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Education

Recommended Citation

Hoogers, Shelley A., "Teacher-to-Parent Communication: What Parents Want from Alternative Educators" (2007). Master of Education Program Theses. 30.
https://digitalcollections.dordt.edu/med_theses/30