Parental engagement in children’s STEM education. Part II: Parental attitudes and motivation

Abstract

This mixed-methods case study examines parental motivation for participation in a Canadian university-based STEM outreach event. Parents responded to a post-event questionnaire that was followed by individual interviews. The quantitative part revealed how and why parents engaged with their children’s STEM education. Surprisingly, neither university admission requirements nor STEM-related job opportunities were top motivating factors. The qualitative part indicated that some parents found it challenging to connect their children’s learning experience in school with the government-mandated curriculum or with their own experiences. Most interviewees were satisfied with their children’s STEM education and considered family support crucial in this process.

Authors and Affiliations

Carlos C. F. Marotto, Marina Milner-Bolotin

Keywords

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  • EP ID EP563140
  • DOI 10.31129/LUMAT.6.1.293
  • Views 109
  • Downloads 0

How To Cite

Carlos C. F. Marotto, Marina Milner-Bolotin (2018). Parental engagement in children’s STEM education. Part II: Parental attitudes and motivation. LUMAT: International Journal on Math, Science and Technology Education, 6(1), 61-87. https://europub.co.uk/articles/-A-563140