Demand for private tutoring received by left-behind children in China : a case study of a primary school in Sichuan province

Abstract

The present study focuses on the demand for private tutoring received by left-behind children in China. A case study of a primary school in Sichuan Province where there are 6.92 million left-behind children was conducted. A ecological model is used as the study’s theoretical framework. Questionnaires were administrated to 13 students from Grade 3 to Grade 5; interviews were conducted with 9 students, 5 teachers and 6 parents/grandparents (guardians). Among the left-behind children participants, 3 received private tutoring. Tutoring they received varied and so did their reasons for participation. It is found that central to the demand (i.e. the decision on private tutoring participation) for private tutoring is a triad of migrant parents, left-behind children and grandparents. Factors on four levels, i.e. family, school, community and society, contribute to the demand. Factors on one level may influence or even lead to ones on another. In addition, rural-urban difference in demand for private tutoring goes through this study and its implications are discussed.