7.3 Engage with the parents/carers Understand strategies for working effectively, sensitively and confidentially with parents/carers
Example Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews- Reflection As previously mentioned, during my final placement, I attended student progress interviews as an observer after school hours. This was a very informative experience. Students prepared for their interviews during the weeks leading up to them. They then presented a 'learning progress folder' to their parents which outlined what they had learnt during the previous semester. Parents were invited to ask questions to both the student and the teacher, however the presentation was student lead. Upon reflection, I acknowledge this type of communication with parents is very effective. This is because the student is involved and able to contribute and participate in discussions. It allows both parent and student to be active participants in the learning process.
Example Teacher to Parent Communication- Emails Parents are highly involved in the school community, especially during the primary school years. During my four placements, I have witnessed and been involved in various methods of teacher parent communication.
Parent teacher communication using emails is confidential and highly effective. It has been a constantly used communication method during all placements. Parents have reported emailing the teacher is convenient as they can complete the task from their work place, smart phone or home computer. They can put forward questions as they think of them, and inform the teacher of important information at all hours of the day. This communication method is also ideal for teachers as they can respond during the school day, but do not need to coordinate a lengthy phone call with a busy parent. I have been involved in email communication to parents and solved problems quickly and easily.