Family Engagement in Education

A Comprehensive Course by Harvard University

Course Description

Dive into the transformative world of family engagement in education with this comprehensive course led by Harvard University's esteemed faculty member, Karen L. Mapp. This course explores the critical importance of family-educator-community partnerships in fostering student success, particularly in light of the recent changes brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. By focusing on the updated Dual Capacity-Building Framework, participants will gain invaluable insights into creating meaningful, authentic, and trusting relationships between families and schools.

What Students Will Learn

  • The significance of family-educator-community partnerships in driving student success
  • In-depth understanding of the Dual Capacity-Building Framework and its application
  • Strategies to address socioeconomic factors and their impact on student outcomes
  • Techniques for developing shared accountability between educators and families
  • Real-world application of inclusive policies and programs to engage families and students

Prerequisites

This course has no specific prerequisites, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals interested in family engagement in education.

Course Content

  • The evolution of family engagement in education post-Covid-19 pandemic
  • Detailed exploration of the Dual Capacity-Building Framework
  • Case studies and real-world scenarios from experts in the field
  • Strategies for addressing inequalities in education (income, race, and access)
  • Techniques for developing deeper connections with marginalized populations
  • Methods for fostering student success and community unity
  • Approaches to creating inclusive and supportive educational policies and programs

Target Audience

This course is ideal for educators, school administrators, policymakers, community leaders, parents, guardians, and anyone interested in improving student achievement through enhanced family engagement in schools. It is particularly beneficial for those working with at-risk youth, economically disadvantaged students, and families facing language barriers or educational trauma.

Real-World Application

The skills and knowledge gained from this course can be applied in various real-world scenarios:

  • Educators can implement new strategies to improve parental involvement and support learning at home.
  • School administrators can design more inclusive educational policies and family engagement programs.
  • Community leaders can facilitate better partnerships between schools and local organizations.
  • Parents and guardians can more effectively advocate for their children's academic success.
  • Policymakers can craft more informed and effective policies to support family engagement in early childhood education and beyond.

By mastering the Dual Capacity Framework and understanding the complexities of family engagement in education, learners will be equipped to make a significant positive impact on student achievement, particularly for at-risk youth and economically disadvantaged students. This course provides the tools necessary to create more inclusive, supportive, and effective educational environments that benefit students, families, and communities alike.