Parents’ Perspectives on Quality of Schooling in Andhra Pradesh, India
This paper is based on analysis of in-depth interviews with parents of children aged 9-10 years in Andhra Pradesh
Abstract
The post-MDG development agenda recognises that simply getting children enrolled in school does not equate with better learning outcomes for children. Globally, there is an ‘education, learning and skills crisis’ with vast numbers of children unable to read or do basic maths after several years of schooling. A focus on improving the quality of schooling is essential, but little is known about what parents perceive as a good school. As they are the key decision-makers when selecting schools for their children, it is important to know what they define as quality in schools.
This paper, by Young Lives and Save the Children, is based on analysis of in-depth interviews with parents of children aged 9-10 years in Andhra Pradesh. The intention was to explore parents’ perceptions of the changing education sector in Andhra Pradesh, and the factors that affect their decision-making about school choice and change. The paper explores these questions through the lens of school choice (i.e. perceptions of state schools compared with private schools). The findings are likely to resonate with parents in similar settings around the world.
Citation
Morrow, V.; Wilson, E. Parents’ Perspectives on Quality of Schooling in Andhra Pradesh, India. (2014) 25 pp.
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