The Impact of Parental Influence on Students' Music Subject Selection at A-level in Ugandan Secondary Schools

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of parental influence on students' selection of music as a subject in Ugandan A-Level secondary  schools, amid declining enrolment in the music subject field. This research paper aims to understand how parental perceptions and  attitudes toward music influence students’ subject choices, focusing on concerns over career viability and societal views on music  subjects. A descriptive survey design was employed, involving questionnaires and interviews with 211 participants, including at A-level  former music students (those who offered music at O-level and did not continue with it at A-level), their parents, school administrators, and music teachers. Stratified random sampling and purposive techniques were used to select respondents from secondary schools in  central Uganda, with data collected through structured questionnaires and a Likert scale. Results indicate that parental discouragement  significantly deters students from choosing music as a subject at A-level due to perceived limitations in career prospects and cultural  attitudes, aligning with societal preferences for traditionally prestigious subjects. Limited generalizability outside of Ugandan A-level  contexts may restrict the broader application of findings. Enhanced parental awareness and school-based counseling are recommended  to promote music subject as a viable and valuable field.