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Introduction to Family Engagement in Education

Karen L. Mapp

4.5

Based on 8 ratings

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Karen L. Mapp

In this education course, you will learn what family engagement is and why it matters to the success of students and schools. We will explore the research linking family engagement to better educational outcomes and speak directly with researchers, educators, students, and families about promising practices in the field.

Family engagement describes what families do at home and in the community to support their children’s learning and development. It also encompasses the shared partnership and responsibility between home and school.

Such engagement is essential for school improvement. It is also increasingly recognized as an integral element for proficient practice as an educator.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

The relationship between family engagement and improved school/student outcomes from birth through high school
The additional benefits family engagement brings to parents, educators, and communities

What the research shows about the importance of engaging families

The relationship between family engagement and improved school/student outcomes from birth through high school
The additional benefits family engagement brings to parents, educators, and communities
What the research shows about the importance of engaging families

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Focuses on family engagement from birth through high school

Taught by Karen L. Mapp, an expert in family engagement

Relevant for educators who want to improve school/student outcomes

Appropriate for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of family engagement

Explores the impact of family engagement on parents, educators, and communities

Part of a larger program on family engagement

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Reviews summary

Introduction to family engagement in education

According to learners, this course provides a valuable and comprehensive introduction to the field of family engagement in education. Many students appreciated the strong foundation in research that underpins the content, as well as the insights gained from interviews with experts and practitioners. While the course is praised for its theoretical depth and thought-provoking material, some reviewers noted that it could benefit from more practical, 'how-to' examples or case studies. Overall, it's viewed as a well-structured and accessible starting point for understanding this critical area of education.

Excellent starting point for novices.

"This is a great course for anyone new to the topic of family engagement."

"It's an accessible and clear introduction that doesn't require prior knowledge."

"Perfect if you're just starting to explore this area in education."

Features valuable expert interviews.

"The interviews with experts and practitioners were very insightful."

"Learning directly from researchers and educators added significant value."

"I found the guest speakers' perspectives particularly enriching and relevant."

Broad introduction to the topic.

"Provides an excellent overview of the field of family engagement."

"This course was a great introduction to the concept and importance of family engagement in education."

"It covers the key aspects and different dimensions of family engagement well."

Grounded in educational research.

"The course is heavily research based which I really appreciate..."

"I gained a solid understanding of the research linking family engagement and student outcomes."

"It provides a good foundation on the studies proving why this is important."

Could use more practical examples.

"I wished there were more examples on how to implement family engagement strategies in practice."

"A bit light on the 'how-to', more theoretical than applied."

"Could benefit from more case studies demonstrating real-world application."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Family Engagement in Education with these activities:

Review Families and Schools: A New Paradigm for School Improvement

Show steps

Provides context and background for family engagement as an educational practice.

Show steps

Read the preface and introduction.
Read chapters 2 and 3.
Summarize the key findings of the research presented in these chapters.

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Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Family Engagement in Education will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Teacher

As a Teacher, you will provide instruction and guidance to students at various levels of education, including elementary, middle, and high school. The coursework on family engagement will help you build a solid foundation in understanding the importance of engaging families in the education process. This knowledge can help you create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment for your students.

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Educational Consultant

As an Educational Consultant, you will work with schools and other educational institutions to develop and implement strategies for improving student outcomes. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with valuable insights into the role of families in supporting student learning. This knowledge can help you develop more effective strategies for engaging families and improving student outcomes.

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School Counselor

As a School Counselor, you will provide guidance and support to students, families, and educators. The coursework on family engagement will help you develop a strong understanding of the importance of family engagement and how to effectively engage families in the school setting. This knowledge can help you create a more supportive and inclusive school environment for all students.

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Principal

As a Principal, you will be responsible for the overall leadership and management of a school. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a strong foundation in understanding the importance of engaging families in the school community. This knowledge can help you create a more supportive and inclusive school environment for all students.

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Parent Educator

As a Parent Educator, you will work with parents and caregivers to provide them with information and support on child development and education. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a deep understanding of the importance of family engagement and how to effectively engage families in their children's education. This knowledge can help you create more effective programs and resources for parents and caregivers.

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Social Worker

As a Social Worker, you will work with individuals, families, and communities to address social and emotional issues. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a strong understanding of the importance of family engagement in addressing social and emotional issues. This knowledge can help you develop more effective strategies for working with families and improving outcomes for individuals and communities.

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Childcare Provider

As a Childcare Provider, you will provide care and education to young children. The coursework on family engagement will help you build a solid foundation in understanding the importance of engaging families in their children's early learning experiences. This knowledge can help you create a more supportive and nurturing environment for the children in your care.

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Nonprofit Manager

As a Nonprofit Manager, you will be responsible for the overall leadership and management of a nonprofit organization. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a strong understanding of the importance of engaging families in the mission and work of the organization. This knowledge can help you create a more supportive and inclusive organization for all stakeholders.

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Community Organizer

As a Community Organizer, you will work with communities to develop and implement strategies for addressing social and economic issues. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a strong understanding of the importance of engaging families in community development efforts. This knowledge can help you develop more effective strategies for working with families and improving outcomes for communities.

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Policy Analyst

As a Policy Analyst, you will research and analyze public policies and programs. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a strong understanding of the importance of engaging families in the policymaking process. This knowledge can help you develop more effective policies and programs that support families.

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Researcher

As a Researcher, you will conduct research on social and behavioral issues. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a strong foundation in understanding the importance of engaging families in research studies. This knowledge can help you develop more effective research designs and methods for working with families.

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Professor

As a Professor, you will teach and conduct research in higher education. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a strong foundation in understanding the importance of engaging families in the higher education experience. This knowledge can help you create more effective teaching and learning experiences for your students.

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Program Director

As a Program Director, you will be responsible for the overall leadership and management of a specific program or initiative. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a strong understanding of the importance of engaging families in the program design and implementation process. This knowledge can help you create more effective programs and initiatives that support families.

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Family Advocate

As a Family Advocate, you will work with families to provide them with support and resources. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a deep understanding of the importance of family engagement and how to effectively engage families in addressing their needs. This knowledge can help you create more effective programs and resources for families.

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Family Lawyer

As a Family Lawyer, you will represent clients in family law matters, such as divorce, child custody, and adoption. The coursework on family engagement will provide you with a strong understanding of the importance of engaging families in the legal process. This knowledge can help you provide more effective legal representation to your clients.

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Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Family Engagement in Education.

Family Engagement with Schools