Parents’ perceptions of English language teaching in English medium preschools in Bangladesh

Abstract

Preschool education plays a significant role in children‘s learning and development. It trains children for future pedagogical experiences and supports them to reach their full potential. Parents play significantly to children‘s early growth, and their opinions of early childhood education are essential for providing efficient and successful preschool programs. This study aims to investigate parents‘ perceptions concerning preschool education. It raises awareness about the significance and current situation of pre-primary education through exploring parents‘ perceptions and experiences on preschool programs. This research is a qualitative approach. Data is acquired by in-depth interviews and focus group discussion with parents of preschool children in Dhaka. The collected data is audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings stated that parents hold positive attitudes toward English language learning in preschool. They consider English as an important skill that can contribute to their children‘s future academic success and global competitiveness. Parents anticipate their children to develop communication competence, vocabulary, and overall language proficiency from an early age. Moreover, the study showed that parents observed developments in their children's English vocabulary and communication competence because of preschool English instruction. However, participants also reported different challenges, including absence of clear direction from schools concerning how English should be taught and practiced at home. Despite these obstacles, parents help their children's learning through everyday conversation, media, practice of school-taught content, and encouragement.