ABSTRACT
This chapter examines two research-based approaches to involve families in their children's education in ways that are important to teachers, students, and parents; these approaches have not been well implemented in most schools. The applications were designed, developed, and tested to help educators systematically, equitably, and productively involve families at home and in school to improve student learning. The descriptions and examples of The Teachers Involve Parents in Schoolwork (TIPS) materials in this chapter may be particularly helpful in courses on curriculum and instruction, methods of teaching specific subjects, practice teaching seminars, and related instruction for future teachers and administrators. TIPS is one approach for designing and implementing interactive homework. Educators must understand all six major types of involvement (parenting, communicating, volunteering, learning at home, decision making, and collaborating with the community) to implement, evaluate, and sustain comprehensive programs of school, family, and community partnerships.
