School choice decision of middle-class parents in urban India: a sociological introspection

PurposeThe purpose of this study to add to the body of knowledge by examining and discussing school choice trends through the perspective of rational choice theory. This qualitative research explores rationale behind the choice of government schools by middle-class parents in contemporary India. This research will also shed light on the features of the schools that parents consider while making school selection process. Finally, research focuses upon the process and context of decision-making and dynamics involved therein. In other words, the attempt is being made to understand what is the yardstick used by parents to differentiate “good” and “bad” school.Design/methodology/approachThis qualitative research was conducted in two government (central and state) schools in Lucknow, India. The findings of the study are based on 22 qualitative interviews conducted with parents of school-going children, and principal or headmaster of the school. The interviews were unstructured and open-ended and were supported by observations. The observation was not only made of the social setting but also the reaction of the participants. The idea was to develop an emic view of the subject by exploring valid narratives. Pseudonyms were used to report the finding so as to maintain the confidentiality of the research subjects.FindingsThis research found that the majority of the parents chose school according to their social class, that is, the lower middle-class parents sent their wards to state government primary school, while the middle-class parents preferred to send their wards to central government school (Kendriya Vidyalaya). This study, therefore, lends credence to the contention that the middle class is a variegated social category and the dynamics of school choice vary across its subcategories. This lends credence to the contention that school choice decision is not solely a utilitarian choice and may be guided by emotion as well.Originality/valueThe originality of the research lies in the fact that the authors are extending the arguments made by the rational choice theory. The theory proposes that individual makes rational decisions motivated by self-interest and people look for the finest product or service and in pursuing them attempt to maximize their overall utility. Derivatively, Indian parents rationally make school choice decisions for their wards, gathering information and weighing various options and subsequently choose the “best” school for their children. This study moves beyond the prevailing perception that public schools offer low-quality education, and nobody attends such schools out of choice.