Viewing the Parent-Teacher Relationship in Music Education Through the Lens of Role Theory: A Literature Review

Abstract

The relationship between a parent and a teacher can be fraught with difficulties because of role conflicts that may result from the negotiations that occur between them. We synthesized recent perspectives drawn from the research literature on parent-teacher relationships with that of role theory, and aim to demonstrate how the current research literature can be used to describe the roles of parents and teachers and their relationship to one another in music lessons. Our findings indicate that parents often play multiple roles such as home supervisors, supporters, providers, role models, partners in education, and consumers, whereas teachers may play the roles of professional musicians, educators, partners in education, and role models. We argue that roles should be understood as resulting from interaction and negotiation between parties in a relationship, and suggest that concepts from role theory are helpful tools for the reconceptualization of parents’ and teachers’ roles.

Interpreting 7-year-old beginner cellists’ experiences of practice

“…The intervention successfully aligned the learner’s and parent’s intrapersonal needs. This outcome was consistent with broader research that indicates when parents participate in a communal relationship with their child and the teacher through open communication of learning goals, they can encourage productive practice behavior, including modeling and implementation of appropriate practice strategies (Ang et al, 2021; Creech, 2016). Effective parental support was further characterized by enthusiastic interest, respectful endorsement of teacher directives and affirmation of the teacher-student relationship (Creech, 2010).…”

Using an Equity-Centered Framework to Guide Family Engagement: Supporting Children’s Lifewide Music-Making through Reciprocal Partnerships

“…28 Parents' expectations of the music educator's role have also been found to be important to effective parent-teacherpupil interactions. 29 Thus, we encourage teachers to consider their views of their role (e.g., teacher and mentor), as well as parents' and students' views about their roles (e.g., caregiver and mentor), 30 as they work to engage families.…”

Comments From the Editor: The Effects of Bourbon Drinking on Creating Manuscript Titles

“…Similar to declarative titles, descriptive ones should also be succinct and focused. In this issue of Update , “Viewing the Parent–Teacher Relationship in Music Education Through the Lens of Role Theory: A Literature Review” by Ang et al (2021) is an example of a descriptive title that fits this criteria.…”