Productive Communication With Parents

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Explain at least three instances where the speech demonstrates sensitivity to the parents

First, the teacher appreciates parents for their effort to arrive at school; she also acknowledges the presence of translators, an act that is very effective. The teacher confirms to the parents that she will stay in school late, until 8pm, at least once a week, for the sake of those parents who work during school hours. This shows how she is considerate of the parents who would want to consult her on pressing matters but cannot due to the school closing time. In addition, she introduces the website as a way of communicating to parents, which is very effective and fast, especially for the all-day busy parent.

Reflect on how these three instances of sensitivity could affect the parents

According to Epstein (2001, p.34), some teachers prefer parents’ involvement in their children schoolwork, therefore enhancing cooperation between the parents and teachers. The use of website as a means of communication increases the flow of information between the two institutions, and yields to focus by the student. When the parents are at least allowed to see the teacher once a week, during after-school hours, this move creates time and motivates parents to be concerned about their children academics, and they acquire ideas on how they can assist their children at home. With the presence of a translator, parents are able to understand the all vital information regarding their children school and academics.

Provide at least two quotes from the speech that demonstrate insensitivity to the parents. Explain how each quote demonstrates insensitivity

The two quotes as follows: “To make sure you understand how my classroom will be run, I have written a disclosure document and made a copy for all of you.” “If you have any concerns or questions, you can come to school those nights and see me.” “The school’s Web site will also allow us to communicate by e-mail. Email is one of the best ways for us to communicate.”

Keeping in mind that most parents do not have reading skills, it will prove difficult for them to elaborate what the disclosure document entails once they have taken it with them. Therefore, the teacher should have also made sure the document is interpreted in writing. In addition, the evening hours she recommends for the parents to see her may be unfavorable for most parents who have two to three jobs and have to arrive home in time for dinner preparations. Most parents are literate and this could prove to be a problem when accessing the internet.

Reflect on how these two instances of insensitivity could affect the parents

According to Mendoza (2003), a written material can prove to be of no use to the reader, especially if reading level is high especially for the parents with low literacy skills. In this case, the teacher hands out documents to the parents and expects the parents to interpret them, for instance, on the night that she will be available. This strategy could be difficult for some parents, hence being of no impact at all. Secondly, flexibility is important in operating hours when some parents can afford to pass by the school in the evening; some cannot as result of several jobs they may be undertaking. In addition, they have to create time for their family in the evenings. The use of internet as a means of communication is a wise and effective idea, however, most parents are illiterate, therefore proving difficult to access the internet.

Reflect on at least two instances where the teacher could have demonstrated greater sensitivity to the parents

On the parent’s school visiting hours, the teacher should have first consulted with the parents on their favorable time that they can be available in order to enhance flexibility as some parents may be living quite far from the school premises. According to Mendoza (2003), the geographical distances can prove to be a challenge for the parents. Despite the fact that internet is becoming a common mode of communication and easily accessible, it is possible that some parents could be illiterate, hence being incapable of accessing information. In addition, some parents cannot afford a computer at home; therefore, the teacher could have researched on the availability of computers and internet for these families.

Conclusion

Discuss the role of a parent in a child’s education

A parent’s participation in a child’s education is very important as it contributes greatly to the wellbeing of the child academically. Teachers educate children at school and expect them to tackle their homework; however, if a child lacks assistance at home, he may be devastated. In addition, if a child realizes that his parents are not concerned with their academics, they may become less focused on education. According to Epstein (2001, p. 35), parents’ involvement in their children academics contributes to acquiring more ideas on how to assist their children at home. He further adds that children whose parents are more involved with schoolwork acquire more during holidays. It is therefore the duty of parents to ensure that their children tackle their assignments and create study time during holidays and weekends.

As a teacher, I would ensure that a parent assess his child’s homework via signing a diary which signifies that the homework was completed before presented to the teacher the next day. Secondly, I would make sure that parents are briefed in their child’s performance after every examination. In case their performance is deteriorating, parents would be encouraged to motivate and encourage their children. In cases of excellent performance or an improvement in performance, I would encourage parents to reward their children. Communication would be my main focus, as Mendoza (2003) explains, it is an important factor in any relationship, and in this case, it contributes towards a child development academically.

References

Epstein, J. L. (2001). School, family, and community partnerships. Preparing educators and improving schools. NY: West view press publishers.

Mendoza, J. (2003). Communicating with parents. Clearinghouse on early education and parenting. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Web.

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