ANALYSIS OF THE FACTORS INFLUENCING PARENTS’ PREFERENCE FOR PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Abstract

The growing public interest in private schools indicates a shift in parents’ preferences when it comes to choosing an education for their children. This study aims to examine and synthesise the various factors influencing parents’ preferences in choosing private schools and to categorise these factors into relevant main categories. This study employs a literature review method using a descriptive qualitative approach. Data sources were obtained through a documentary study of 10 scientific articles published in the last five years. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis techniques, involving the organisation, grouping, synthesis, and drawing of conclusions. The results indicate that parents’ preferences in choosing private schools are influenced by several key factors, namely educational quality, facilities and infrastructure, the school’s image and reputation, tuition fees, location and accessibility, as well as social factors and religious values. These findings also indicate that parents’ decisions are multidimensional and are not based solely on rational considerations, but also on values, experiences, and hopes for their children’s future. The contribution of this research lies in presenting a comprehensive synthesis of the factors influencing parents’ preferences when choosing private schools, thereby providing a basis for policymakers and education administrators in designing strategies to improve the quality of educational services that are better aligned with community needs.