The Mediating Effect of Student Engagement on the Influence of Parental Involvement on Pupils’ Academic Performance: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach

Abstract

This study investigated the mediating role of Student engagement in the relationship between parental involvement and students’ academic performance using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). A causal-descriptive research design was employed involving 203 grade 4 to 6 students and 203 parents from Plantation Central Elementary School, Manolo Fortich District III, Division of Bukidnon, Philippines. Validated instruments were utilized to measure parental involvement and student engagement, while academic performance was based on students’ average grades. Results indicated very high levels of parental involvement and student engagement, alongside outstanding academic performance. Model fit indices confirmed that the proposed SEM exhibited good fit. While the direct effect of parental involvement on academic performance was significant, the indirect effect through Student engagement was not statistically significant, suggesting the presence of other mediating factors. Findings highlight the importance of strengthening home–school partnerships to support learners’ academic success.