Using the Internet to increase parent -school communication: A survey of parent interest and intended use of school Web sites

Children today spend a major component of their waking hours in day care or school, being cared for by someone other than a parent. Research suggests that schools play a powerful role toward the psychological and social growth of children. However, the quality and magnitude of parent involvement in schools is also important in promoting healthy development. Despite research that points to the short and long term benefits, barriers continue to preclude high levels of parental involvement in schools. The Internet can provide an additional opportunity for parent-school communication.;To explore parents' attitude and intended use of school web sites 116 parents were surveyed in the New York area. One hundred and eight parents completed the survey packet, which included an informed consent form, demographic questionnaire, and questionnaire of parents' interest in school web sites and e-mail. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and analyses of variance. Results indicated that high frequency Internet users had a more favorable attitude towards school web sites and the option of e-mail to communicate with teachers, than low frequency Internet users. Parents' work schedule or grade of child did not result in differences in attitude or intended use of school web sites or e-mail. Both groups reported a favorable attitude and endorsed e-mail options.