Barriers To Parental Involvement In Their Children’s Education In The Bahamas

This study examined a crucial societal issue related to parent involvement in their children’s education in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas. The main focus of this study was to obtain information on the barriers to parental involvement in their children’s education. The study also sought to determine the perceptions of parents and teachers of the importance of parental involvement and also gain an understanding of why the barriers exist and how they affect the children. An enquiry into the cultural capital theory as it relates to parental involvement was also conducted. Both the qualitative and quantitative research method designs were used. Data was collected and analyzed to gain insight into the barriers using structured interviews and self-administered questionnaires. The study utilized parents whose children are enrolled in government school institutions. Also principals and teachers serving government schools were also participants. The results of the study indicated that barriers such as job obligations and time constraints were among the major determinants of parents not being actively involved in their children’s education. It was also discovered that there are differences in the perceptions of both parents and teachers about the importance of education and the effects of barriers on children. The findings revealed that some parents lack the cultural capital of schools and must be trained accordingly. Principals and teachers who participated in the study are cognizant of the importance of parental involvement but believe that parents are not fulfilling their roles and responsibilities as parents. A decline in active parental involvement in their children’s education exists, although the Department of Education in conjunction with the public schools in The Bahamas has implemented measures to encourage parental involvement. This study aims to bring an awareness of the barriers to parental involvement in their children’s education in The Bahamas and thus establish a framework for strategies that can be further studied to promote an increase in parental involvement. Thereafter, if parental involvement increases this will positively impact the holistic dynamics of education in The Bahamas.