Date of Award

2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

First Advisor

Nipael Mrutu

Department

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

Abstract

Parental involvement plays a significant role in children's literacy development. This qualitative study explored the opportunities for parental support in literacy growth, parents' challenges, and practical strategies to increase parental engagement. Interviews were conducted with parents, teachers, and students at a public junior secondary school in Nairobi, Kenya. Observational data was also collected through home visits.

The findings revealed various avenues for parental involvement, such as shared reading, maintaining a print-rich home environment, acting as literacy role models, communicating effectively with teachers, and assisting with homework. These opportunities helped strengthen parent-child bonds and fostered a love for reading. However, challenges include time constraints due to work commitments, low parental literacy levels, language barriers, lack of access to resources, and socioeconomic factors that limit parental participation.

To address these obstacles, strategies such as parent education programs, partnerships between schools and families, tailored support initiatives, improved access to resources and technology, and promotion of parent-child interactions were identified. Parent workshops raised awareness about literacy and equipped caregivers with skills. Joint professional development for teachers and parents cultivated coordination. Tailored programs addressed specific needs like language barriers. Resource centers and technology training increased the availability of materials. Literary activities at home stimulated engagement.

The implications of this study suggest pathways for empowering stakeholders. Insights guide parents in recognizing opportunities and seeking skills. Teachers gain perspective in collaborating with families. Schools’ empowerment through workshops and community outreach. Policymakers obtain guidance in framework development. Adopting a coordinated, multi-pronged approach respecting diversity can strengthen support networks and foster optimal conditions for children to develop into capable readers.

First Page

1

Last Page

93

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