The Power of Public Displays of Learning

There are certain moments in a parent and child relationship that are particularly bonding. These are the moments parents choose to tell me about when I conduct research for private and independent school clients to help them better understand their value proposition, enrollment challenges, and brand messaging. When I ask parents to share a high point moment for them at the school, many tell me about a time when the whole school or grade gathered for a performance or special event.

According to several  research studies compiled by the National Institutes of Health, parent bonding can occur almost any time the parent and child are together.  Just as studies have proven that when oxytocin, also known as “the hormone of attachment” is released, parent and child bonding is heightened. I suspect, based on my qualitative research, that this hormone is also released when parents observe their child, at any age, doing something that in their eyes is amazing and brilliant. In a school setting, that often occurs during a Public Display of Learning.

A PDL can be any event large or small that requires a child to stretch himself, to work hard to produce the PDL and to perform it in a venue shared by community members. It could be a book report, Chapel Talk, athletic event, school play, an arts night, or cherished event specific to that school. The interesting thing about a PDL is that not only does it strengthen the parent and child bond, but it  also results in the parent forming a bond with the school, the teachers, and the other parents who shared in this moment and made it possible.

Through my research on attrition, I have formed a framework to help school leaders retain more families at the school. The framework is the 6 Components of Parent Retention. One of the components is the power of Public Displays of Learning. PDLs are not just for the students, though I believe they hold great benefit for students, it is what motivates teachers, administration, and coaches to create them. Still, the power a PDL holds for parents, guardians, and grandparents as they continually assess the value proposition of a tuition-based school is largely underestimated.

The author, Jill Goodman, is a consultant working with independent school leaders to advance their school’s mission, enhance their processes, and bolster their skills. Learn more about all services here.

Photo credit: Hartlove Goodyear