Date of Award

9-18-1998

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Teaching & Learning

First Advisor

Janet Ahler

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the educational values convergence and disparity of parents and educators in an American Indian community. It assumes that any effective educational reform is based on community values. This study explores whether the Indian community school's personnel and parents of students share values, and to what extent these values resemble those of a more Eurocentric model or more traditional Indian values.Qualitative research methods were used in the study involving a triangulated approach: (1) participant observation; (2) in-depth interviews based on a semi-structured checklist of open-ended questions; and (3) collection of archival documentation. Data were analyzed for themes or commonalities, and results were discussed in relationship to available literature relative to each theme. A summary, conclusions, recommendations, implications, and reflections for educators and parents were provided.Participant interviews began with the questions, "What are your hopes and dreams for the future?" and "What are your worries and concerns for the future?" As the conversations expanded, participants were asked to respond to these questions about themselves and their families, their school, and their community. Responses to these interview questions, participant observation, and reference to documentation about the community produced data which through coding analysis emerged in the following themes: (1) Equity and inclusion are values shared by parents and educators relating to educational change. (2) Family-school collaboration is a value shared by parents and educators relating to educational change. (3) Cultural cohesion, diversity, and language curriculum are related values shared by educators and parents regarding school change. (4) Parenting, discipline, and the courts are concerns shared by educators and parents considering school improvement.The emergence of these themes indicate considerable values convergence between educators and parents. The key to educational reform will be the determination on the part of all concerned to communicate and collaborate.

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