Thesis Abstract

Abstract

Parental involvement has been recognized as a crucial factor in promoting healthy behaviors and academic achievement among children. However, the specific role of parental involvement in supporting physical activity and health education initiatives in schools remains understudied. This research aims to assess the impact of parental involvement on promoting physical activity and health education in elementary and middle schools. The study will employ a mixed-methods approach, utilizing surveys, focus groups, and interviews to gather data from students, parents, and school personnel.

The research will investigate the relationship between various forms of parental involvement (e.g., volunteering, communication with teachers, participation in school events) and students' physical activity levels, knowledge of health topics, and attitudes towards healthy behaviors. Additionally, the study will explore the perceptions and experiences of parents, teachers, and school administrators regarding the barriers and facilitators to effective parental involvement in school-based health initiatives. The findings will contribute to the development of strategies for fostering parental engagement and supporting comprehensive health education programs in schools.

Thesis Overview

Chapter 1: Introduction

Background 

The importance of physical activity and health education in promoting the overall well-being of children and adolescents is well-established. Regular physical activity has been linked to numerous benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, better cognitive function, and reduced risk of obesity and chronic diseases1. Furthermore, health education programs in schools play a crucial role in equipping students with knowledge and skills related to nutrition, personal hygiene, and healthy lifestyle choices2.

While schools are responsible for implementing physical education and health education curricula, parental involvement has been recognized as a key factor in supporting and reinforcing these initiatives3. Parents can influence their children's health behaviors through role modeling, encouragement, and involvement in school activities. However, the specific role and impact of parental involvement in promoting physical activity and health education in schools remain understudied.

Significance of the Study This study aims to contribute to the understanding of the role of parental involvement in promoting physical activity and health education in schools. By assessing the relationship between various forms of parental involvement and students' physical activity levels, knowledge of health topics, and attitudes towards healthy behaviors, the research will provide valuable insights into effective strategies for engaging parents in school-based health initiatives.

The findings of this study have the potential to inform the development and implementation of programs and policies aimed at fostering parental engagement in physical activity and health education. By identifying the barriers and facilitators to effective parental involvement, schools and policymakers can develop targeted interventions and support systems to encourage and support parents in promoting healthy behaviors among their children.

Research Objectives The primary objectives of this study are:

1. To assess the impact of parental involvement on students' physical activity levels, knowledge of health topics, and attitudes towards healthy behaviors.
2. To investigate the relationship between different forms of parental involvement (e.g., volunteering, communication with teachers, participation in school events) and student outcomes related to physical activity and health education.
3. To explore the perceptions and experiences of parents, teachers, and school administrators regarding the barriers and facilitators to effective parental involvement in school-based physical activity and health education initiatives.
4. To identify strategies and best practices for fostering parental engagement in supporting comprehensive health education programs in schools.

By addressing these objectives, the study will provide valuable insights into the role of parental involvement in promoting physical activity and health education in schools and contribute to the development of effective strategies for engaging parents in school-based health initiatives.

Footnotes

1. Janssen, I., & LeBlanc, A. G. (2010). Systematic review of the health benefits of physical activity and fitness in school-aged children and youth. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 7(1), 1-16. https://doi.org/10.1186/1479-5868-7-40 ?

2. Kann, L., Telljohann, S. K., & Wooley, S. F. (2007). Health education: Results from the School Health Policies and Programs Study 2006. Journal of School Health, 77(8), 408-434. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1746-1561.2007.00228.x ?

3. Hornby, G., & Lafaele, R. (2011). Barriers to parental involvement in education: An explanatory model. Educational Review, 63(1), 37-52. https://doi.org/10.1080/00131911.2010.488049 ?