Listening to Caregivers: Perceptions of Barriers and Bridges to Family Involvement in Education
David Allsopp, Special Education and Patricia McHatton, Special Eduation working with the University Area Community Development Corporation, Inc., Tampa
Description:
This project will research caregivers’ perceptions of barriers and bridges to involvement in the education of their children, many at-risk. Focus groups will be used to obtain attitudes and perceptions of East Tampa caregivers. The information will focus on traditional school-aged children, ages 5-11 and 12-14.
The USF College of Education researchers will work with the University Area Community Center. They will recruit participants, hold and co-facilitate focus group meetings, and host a presentation of findings. A Center liaison will serve as a research team member. All caregivers will provide date, while some will help summarize findings and define strategies.
The project will aim at adding research on “success behaviors” for children, for school and life, through skill-building. An interactive training Web site with components for educators, families and students will aim at improving efforts among all three groups.
Contact Person: David Allsopp
Funding for Academic Year: 2005-06