Using Technology to Stay Involved in Children’s Education from Abroad: A Guide for Migrant Parents

For many migrant parents living far from their children, staying involved in their education can be challenging. The physical distance, time zone differences, and the demands of daily life in a new country can make it difficult to keep up with their children’s progress. However, technology has become a powerful tool for bridging this gap, allowing parents to play an active role in their children’s education, no matter where they are.

Miriam, a Zimbabwean mother living in Cardiff, is one such parent who has harnessed the power of technology to stay involved in her son’s education back in Zimbabwe. She shares her experiences of using digital tools like WhatsApp and virtual parent-teacher meetings to remain engaged in her son’s academic journey, demonstrating that “sending school fees is not just about the money.” Miriam’s story highlights the importance of being actively involved in her son’s progress, understanding his challenges, and providing support, even from thousands of miles away.

The Role of Technology in Bridging the Distance

Technology has transformed how migrant parents like Miriam can stay connected to their children’s education. Gone are the days when sending school fees and relying on occasional phone calls were the only ways to support a child’s education from abroad. Today, a range of digital tools and platforms allow parents to communicate directly with teachers, access school reports, monitor progress, and even participate in school activities virtually.

1. Communication Platforms: Staying in Touch with Teachers and School Staff

One of the most effective ways to stay involved in a child’s education from afar is through regular communication with teachers and school staff. For Miriam, WhatsApp has become a lifeline. She uses the app to have regular conversations with her son’s teachers, discussing his academic performance, behavior, and any challenges he might be facing. This direct line of communication helps her feel more connected and informed, allowing her to respond promptly to any issues.

Benefits of Communication Platforms:

• Instant Messaging and Video Calls: Apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams allow parents to engage in real-time conversations with teachers, providing updates on their child’s progress and discussing any concerns.
• Group Chats and Broadcasts: Some schools create group chats with teachers and other parents to share important updates, school events, and homework reminders.
• Accessibility: These platforms are widely accessible, user-friendly, and allow for a more personal connection, making it easier for parents to participate actively in their child’s education.

2. Virtual Parent-Teacher Meetings: An Inclusive Approach to Engagement

Miriam also participates in virtual parent-teacher meetings, an option that has become increasingly popular since the COVID-19 pandemic. These meetings provide a convenient way for her to engage with her son’s teachers, understand his academic progress, and discuss specific strategies to support his learning.

Benefits of Virtual Parent-Teacher Meetings:

• Convenience: Parents can attend meetings from anywhere in the world, saving time and travel costs.
• Flexible Scheduling: Schools can accommodate different time zones, making it easier for migrant parents to participate.
• Visual and Audio Interaction: Video conferencing adds a personal touch, allowing parents to see teachers, share documents, and have more meaningful conversations about their child’s education.

3. Digital Learning Platforms: Monitoring Academic Progress

Digital learning platforms like Google Classroom, Edmodo, and Moodle have become essential tools for schools worldwide. These platforms allow parents to monitor their child’s assignments, grades, and overall progress. Miriam has access to such platforms to check her son’s assignments and test scores regularly, giving her insights into his academic strengths and areas where he might need extra help.

Benefits of Digital Learning Platforms:

• Access to Real-Time Updates: Parents can see their child’s progress, assignments, and teacher feedback in real time.
• Direct Involvement in Learning: Parents can help with homework and projects by having access to the same resources and materials as their children.
• Communication with Teachers: Many platforms offer messaging features that facilitate direct communication between parents and teachers.

4. Online Educational Resources: Supporting Learning at Home

Miriam understands that education is not confined to the classroom. She uses online educational resources such as Khan Academy, BBC Bitesize, and YouTube Educational Channels to supplement her son’s learning. These resources offer interactive content, video tutorials, and practice exercises that help her son reinforce concepts learned in school.

Benefits of Online Educational Resources:

• Access to Quality Learning Materials: Parents can use free or low-cost resources to help their children understand difficult subjects or prepare for exams.
• Flexible Learning: Students can learn at their own pace, revisit challenging topics, and explore areas of interest beyond the school curriculum.
• Language and Subject Diversity: Resources are available in multiple languages and cover a wide range of subjects, accommodating different learning needs.

5. Mobile Money and Direct Payment Platforms: Ensuring Financial Support Reaches Its Destination

While staying involved in her son’s education goes beyond financial support, Miriam also uses technology to manage school fee payments. Platforms like WorldRemit, http://www.worldremit.com, and direct school payment gateways enable her to send money securely and ensure it reaches the school on time.

Benefits of Mobile Money and Direct Payment Platforms:

• Secure and Fast Transactions: Ensures that funds are sent and received without delays or mismanagement.
• Tracking and Accountability: Allows for tracking payments and receiving receipts, adding an extra layer of accountability.
• Direct Payments to Schools: Some platforms offer the option to pay fees directly to schools, minimizing the risk of funds being diverted for other purposes.

Challenges and Considerations When Using Technology for Education Involvement

While technology provides numerous benefits for migrant parents like Miriam, there are also challenges to consider:

• Digital Divide: Not all families in Africa have access to reliable internet or digital devices, which can limit the effectiveness of these tools.
• Data Privacy and Security: It’s essential to ensure that all digital communications and transactions are secure to protect personal and financial information.
• Cultural Differences in Educational Practices: Schools and teachers may have varying levels of comfort and familiarity with technology, which can affect how well these tools are utilized.

Conclusion: Staying Connected and Involved, No Matter the Distance

Miriam’s story demonstrates that sending school fees is just one part of supporting a child’s education from abroad. Using technology to stay involved in her son’s academic journey allows her to be present, provide guidance, and ensure he receives the support he needs to succeed. For migrant parents worldwide, embracing digital tools and platforms can help bridge the gap created by distance, offering a powerful way to stay connected to their children’s education and development.

Whether it’s through direct communication with teachers, participating in virtual meetings, or leveraging online resources, technology empowers parents to play an active role in their children’s lives, reinforcing the idea that education is a partnership—regardless of where they are in the world.