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administered to parents. Responses will be assessed to verify observation of the level of involvement. This questionnaire contained thirty-three questions using yes or no responses, a four point Likert Scale: using never, sometimes, often or always, circle the letter that apply and short answers. Questions asking why are attached to some yes/no responses to clarify and extend answers given.

The questionnaire was prepared by the researcher and reviewed by peers. Items are divided into three categories which are demographic data (1-V111), participation in school activities (1-8), communication between home and school (9-18) and parents’ attitude to school (19-33). The aim of the questionnaire will be to ascertain what prevented parents from participating in school base activities, parents’ attitude to school, home and school communication and to find out how involve are parents in their children’s school activities. The questionnaires will be completed by parents who are randomly selected. Items on questionnaires will be used to guide focus group discussions. Responses will be compiled and organized in categories base on themes that have already been selected.

Sample

Best and Kahn (2003) defines sample as a small portion of a population selected for observation and analysis. The sample of thirty parents of varying ages with children in different grade level in an inner-city basic school will be selected. They will be randomly and purposively selected because some are very involved, while others are not involved in school base activities and are available to participate in focus group discussions.

Data Collection Method

Data is referred to as the rough materials researchers collect from the world they are studying which provides clues and evidence that is actively recorded for later analysis Bogdan & Biklen, (1998, p. 106). In order to capture the relevant data to complete this research I will use the following data collection instruments, questionnaire, audio-tape, attendance register and narrative from the focus group sessions. Graphs will be used to illustrate the data. A mix-method approach will be used.

Focus group

A focus group is basically a way to reach out to users of service for feedback and comment. The focus group concentrates on gathering opinions, beliefs and attitudes about issues of interest to the organization. It also provides an opportunity to learn more about a topic or issue. Benefits are gained from using focus group as it elicits multiplicity of views, easy to implement, participants are diverse and benefit is derived from the non-verbal component which oftentimes say more than is said aloud.

Ethical guidelines

In order to protect and respect the privacy of the parents, no pictures will be taken during the research. The parents will be assured that the information collected will be used for research purpose only. The real names of the parents and school will not be mentioned or revealed. An explanation will also be given to the parents about the research and its purpose with an emphasis on voluntary participation and confidentiality. Parents will be assured that no harm will come to them during the research project. The information will be reported with honesty, respect and privacy.

Parental involvement

In an article written by The Pennsylvania PTA, paren