Spring, 2000 No. 8 National Network of Partnership Schools
Web Site Survey:
The Challenges of WorkshopsThe National Network introduced a Quick Survey that asks web site visitors for their views on various partnership activities. The most recent Quick Survey asked visitors about conducting workshops for families, a popular Type 1—Parenting activity. It also asked how schools are meeting an important Type 1 challenge—getting the information from the workshop to those who cannot come. According to the Quick Survey respondents:
- Workshops for parents are held on various topics, including student safety, drug/alcohol abuse prevention, adult education, and—most commonly—parenting skills.
- Relatively few parents attend a workshop—usually fewer than 10% of a school’s families. Poor turnout at prior workshops was one reason that some schools say they do not currently host workshops for parents.
- Activities are being conducted to meet the challenge of getting information to those who cannot come. Some schools summarize the workshop content in a school newsletter or on a special flyer; create video or audio tapes that families may borrow; record main points on a voice mail message that parents can call; or post the workshop content on the school’s web site. Respondents report reaching the most families with summaries of workshops in the newsletters or flyers.
Next Quick Survey:
Visit www.csos.jhu.edu/p2000 and click on "Quick Survey" to share your views about students' summer learning.
