Journal Article

Parental perception on school choice for quality early childhood education in Bangladesh: a socio-economic analysis

Alam, Md. Jahangir, Noman, Shiblee, Parvin, Mayeena, Ogawa, Keiichi

2025

Overview

The choice of an Early Childhood Education (ECE) institution for children is influenced by various aspects, including school costs, parental socio-economic rank, parental impression of the institution, and the school's quality. Insufficient research exists regarding the influence of parental perspective and socio-economic status on school selection within Bangladesh's setting. This study investigates the fundamental aspects that influence parental decision-making about school selection. This study employs a qualitative method using a case study approach. In-depth and key informant interviews were conducted with the parents to acquire data. The participants were chosen using a random purposive method to fulfil the research objectives. The participants included parents who had already registered their children in ECE schools and those contemplating enrolling them. The findings demonstrate that parental viewpoint has a substantial influence on the selection of an ECE school. In contrast, parental socio-economic condition does not exert a noteworthy effect on school choice. Additionally, this study investigates the cost disparity across various ECE schools and other pertinent elements influencing parents' decision-making regarding school choice. This research explores the factors influencing early childhood education program selection in Bangladesh. Parents should emphasize their viewpoints and sentiments about a school, including trust, environment, and reputation, rather than concentrating on the school's financial or social standing. Through in-depth interviews with parents from various backgrounds, this study aims to shed light on the challenges and priorities families face when selecting a preschool for their children. In addition, it demonstrates how the significant price differences among early childhood education programs impact parents. As a result of the findings, communities, politicians and educators may be better able to appreciate parents' desires and goals to expand access to high-quality early education for all families, regardless of their socio-economic circumstances.

• Publisher: Cogent,Taylor & Francis Group
• Subject: Bangladesh / Childhood / Early childhood education / Early Years / Inclusion and Special Educational Needs / parental desire / school choice / SDG 10: School choice / SDG 1: Socio-economic factors / SDG 4: Quality early childhood education / SDG 5: Social justice / social justice