Page 27 - Demo

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Causes of absenteeism at the secondary level in Jamaica: Parents’ perspectives
Background
Research confirms that absenteeism is a major contributor to poor performance in schools. Much of the research on absenteeism in Jamaica has been done at the primary level, and has focused on nutrition and the effect that providing school breakfast has on school attendance. Little research exists at the secondary level.
The researchers, collaborating with others, completed a study in 2009, which revealed that the root causes of absenteeism in primary schools were socioeconomic factors such as unemployment, low literacy levels among parents and community members, the use of child labour, and the low value that parents attach to education. For the current study, the researchers wanted to find out if the causes of absenteeism were similar at the secondary level. They focused the research on the parents’ perspectives because parents exercise such a strong influence on their children’s education. Also examined were the influence of parents’ levels of education on their views on the causes of student absenteeism, as well as their views on the importance of the conditional cash transfer programme, PATH (Programme of Advancement through Health and Education).
The research findings suggest that addressing the problem of absenteeism in our schools requires a multi-pronged approach - on the economic front, in the home and community in general, and at the level of the school.
Recognising Outstanding Researchers 2016