Parents influence on their children s foreign language learning in rural areas

Abstract

Abstract: Learning English as a Foreign Language is necessary to communicate in all areas of the country including rural areas. Teaching English to rural area students is challenging as parents can influence their children s foreign language learning, directly affecting children s motivation. Therefore, this study was carried out with the purpose to identify parents influence on children s English learning. This study was conducted in a basic rural general high school located in Limonal, Daule. The participants were sixty English foreign language students and thirty parents. This research used a mix-method research design. The qualitative and quantitative data was collected through a survey and interview. The results gotten were analyzed according to the research questions. Main findings reveal a positive perception and a high interest from most parents and students in learning English, students with higher parent involvement provided better language outcomes while children with low parent involvement were significantly impacted. The results also showed parents involvement in rural areas does influence children s success in foreign language learning, due to parents English level, geographical location, and lower resources as it reduced students motivation and attitude.