Parental involvement and educational outcomes for Aeta indigenous peoples in Botolan, Zambales Philippines: A descriptive study

Abstract

This study examines parental involvement and its impact on the educational outcomes of the Aeta community in Botolan, Zambales, focusing on parental management, financial support, and parent-teacher collaboration. Using researcher-designed questionnaires and a 5-point Likert scale, data were collected from randomly selected participants to assess engagement levels. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was employed to explore variations in parental involvement based on demographic characteristics such as age, gender, and educational attainment. Results indicate that age, gender, occupation, family size, and recreational activities do not significantly affect parental engagement, reflecting consistent commitment across demographic groups. However, monthly income and educational attainment significantly influence overall involvement, with higher levels linked to greater engagement. Despite these disparities, financial support and parent-teacher collaboration emerged as universal priorities among parents. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening parent-school partnerships to enhance parental involvement. Schools are encouraged to provide workshops, regular updates, and literacy programs alongside fostering effective communication through newsletters, meetings, and digital platforms. Addressing socioeconomic and educational disparities through targeted programs and flexible participation options can empower parents to support their children’s academic and holistic development effectively.