| This research utilized a qualitative case study design implemented in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and investigated parents' and teachers' perceptions of using E-mail as a tool to increase parental involvement during and after school time. Specifically, this case study involved three special education teachers and five parents of children with special needs. The participants represented two public schools and one private school that serve children with autism, intellectual disabilities, and multiple disabilities in KSA. The data collection methods used included semi-structured interviews, tracking of the E-mails exchanged among parents and teachers including students' weekly reports, and a survey. The data were recorded, transcribed, translated and analyzed to identify themes among interviews, survey data and E-mail communication documentation. The study findings indicate that E-mail helps to increase parental involvement in their children's education, as well as, help participants overcome the gender communication associated with cultural barriers. Enhanced Communication, Navigating Cultural Barriers, Availability of Resources and Loss of Hope were the major themes identified in this study.;Keywords: E-mail, Parental Involvement, home-school relationship, teachers' perceptions, parents' perceptions, special education teachers, parents of children with special needs. |
