Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 7
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 9
1.4 Research Questions. 9
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 10
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 10
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 11
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 12
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 12
1.10 Definition of Terms. 13
CHAPTER TWO.. 18
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 18
2.1 Introduction.. 18
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 18
2.2.1 Ecological Systems Theory.. 18
2.2.2 Social Capital Theory.. 19
2.2.3 Parental Investment Theory.. 19
2.2.4 Self-Determination Theory.. 20
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 20
2.4 Empirical Review.. 25
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 28
Chapter Three.. 29
Research Methodology.. 29
3.1 Introduction.. 29
3.2 Research Design.. 29
3.3 Population of the Study.. 29
3.4 Sample and Sampling Techniques. 30
3.5 Instrumentation.. 30
3.6 Validity and Reliability of the Instrument. 30
3.7 Data Collection Procedures. 31
3.8 Data Analysis Techniques. 31
3.9 Ethical Considerations. 31
3.10 Limitations of the Study.. 32
3.11 Summary.. 32
CHAPTER FOUR.. 33
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 33
4.1 Preamble.. 33
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 33
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 37
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 37
Discussion of findings. 52
CHAPTER FIVE.. 55
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 55
5.1 Summary.. 55
5.2 Conclusion.. 56
5.3 Recommendations. 56
REFERENCE.. 59
Questionnaire.. 61
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Parental involvement is widely recognized as a crucial factor in enhancing student academic performance, serving as a key determinant in educational outcomes. The impact of this involvement can be observed across various dimensions of a student's academic journey, from elementary through to higher education. According to a study by Fan and Chen (2001), increased parental engagement correlates strongly with higher student achievement, highlighting that parental support plays a significant role in academic success (Fan & Chen, 2001). This relationship is further supported by more recent research, which suggests that active parental participation can lead to improvements in students' grades, test scores, and overall attitude towards learning (Henderson & Mapp, 2002).
In addition to academic achievement, parental involvement is linked to various behavioral and emotional aspects of student development. A review by Hill and Tyson (2009) emphasizes that parental involvement not only influences academic performance but also impacts student motivation and behavior, contributing to a more positive school experience (Hill & Tyson, 2009). Furthermore, Epstein (2018) asserts that different forms of parental involvement, such as home-based and school-based activities, offer unique benefits that collectively foster a supportive learning environment (Epstein, 2018). These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of parental engagement and its broad influence on student outcomes.
Research also highlights that the effectiveness of parental involvement can be contingent upon factors such as socio-economic status and cultural background. For instance, a study by Jeynes (2005) found that the impact of parental involvement can vary significantly among different demographic groups, with socio-economic factors playing a role in shaping the nature and extent of parental engagement (Jeynes, 2005). Similarly, the work of Deslandes and Cloutier (2002) indicates that cultural expectations and values can influence how parents participate in their children's education, thereby affecting academic performance (Deslandes & Cloutier, 2002).
Moreover, the interaction between parental involvement and school practices is critical in determining its effectiveness. According to a study by Sanders and Harvey (2002), schools that foster strong partnerships with parents often see more pronounced improvements in student achievement, suggesting that collaborative efforts between educators and families are essential for maximizing academic outcomes (Sanders & Harvey, 2002). This notion is further supported by the research of Wilder (2014), who highlights that schools that actively engage parents through various programs and initiatives tend to have higher levels of student performance (Wilder, 2014).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The impact of parental involvement on student academic performance remains a critical area of concern in educational research, as it directly influences students' learning outcomes and overall academic success. Despite extensive studies highlighting the positive correlation between active parental engagement and improved academic performance, many schools still face challenges in effectively fostering this involvement. Fan and Chen (2001) demonstrated that students whose parents are more involved in their education tend to achieve higher grades and test scores, underscoring the importance of this relationship. However, the nature and extent of parental involvement vary widely due to socio-economic and cultural factors, which can create disparities in educational outcomes.
Compounding this issue is the fact that not all forms of parental involvement yield the same results. Hill and Tyson (2009) found that while parental support can enhance student motivation and performance, the effectiveness of different involvement strategies can differ. For instance, while some parents may engage in home-based educational activities, others may contribute through school-based participation. These variations highlight the need for a nuanced understanding of how specific types of parental involvement impact academic achievement, as well as the need for tailored strategies to maximize benefits.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of parental involvement on student academic performance. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To determine the extent to which parental involvement influences student academic performance in specific subject or grade level.
- To investigate the specific types of parental involvement that have the most significant impact on student academic achievement.
- To explore the mediating factors that influence the relationship between parental involvement and student academic performance, such as socioeconomic status, student motivation, and school environment.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What is the relationship between the level of parental involvement and students' academic performance in specific subject or grade level?
- How do different types of parental involvement impact student academic achievement?
- To what extent do socioeconomic status, student motivation, and school environment moderate the relationship between parental involvement and student academic performance?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: Parental involvement has no significant impact on student academic performance.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the education sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Tower of Ivory schools, Uyo. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Parental Involvement
Refers to the active participation and engagement of parents in their child’s educational experience. This can include activities such as helping with homework, attending school meetings, and communicating with teachers to support their child’s academic development.
2. Academic Performance
Encompasses the measurable outcomes of a student’s learning achievements, which can be evaluated through grades, test scores, class participation, and overall scholastic progress. It reflects the extent to which a student meets educational goals and standards.
3. Engagement
Describes the quality and intensity of involvement that parents have in their child’s education. High engagement might include frequent communication with teachers, active participation in school events, and providing a supportive learning environment at home.
4. Parental Expectations
The beliefs and standards that parents hold regarding their child’s academic success. These expectations can influence a child’s motivation and performance by setting goals and reinforcing the importance of education.
5. Educational Support
Refers to the resources and assistance provided by parents to enhance their child's learning. This can include helping with homework, providing educational materials, and creating a conducive study environment.
6. Student Motivation
The level of enthusiasm and commitment a student has towards their academic work. Parental involvement can impact student motivation by encouraging positive attitudes towards learning and fostering a sense of responsibility.
7. School-Home Communication
The interaction and exchange of information between parents and educators. Effective communication can facilitate a better understanding of a student’s needs and progress, and can enhance collaborative efforts to support the student's academic development.
