Families, Schools and Child Development

In this undergraduate seminar, students will examine the complex relationships between family and school systems in the United States and the United Kingdom. We will be examining family-school connections, by taking a look at the nature of both systems as they relate to child development. The course begins with an introduction to the developmental-ecological-systems perspective. We will then consider existing theories regarding family engagement in children’s education, review empirical studies testing aspects of these theories, and consider school policies and practices. Case studies will be used to generate questions and discussion. 

Meets the Societies & Social Sciences Core requirement.