Private tutoring and the subjective rationalities of parents: The experiences in South Korea and Singapore

Purpose – This article proposes a model of subjective rationalities to shed light on the global phenomenon of parental reliance on private tutoring for their children. The model is illustrated using the examples of the rational decision-making process and outcome of parents with regards to enrolling their children in private tutoring in South Korea and Singapore.

Design/methodology/approach – This is a theoretical paper that relies on a critical review of official documents, academic publications and newspaper reports.

Findings – This article proposes a model of subjective rationalities to illuminate the prevalence of parental reliance on private tutoring for their children. It is argued that parents in South Korea and Singapore manifest their subjective rationalities by selecting private tutoring services based on available information at a reasonable cost. It is further contended that the parents’ differentiated investment in private tutoring reflects their cost-benefit analysis that is conditioned by contextual resources, opportunities, and constraints.

Research limitations/implications – This is a conceptual paper that proposes a theoretical model so there is no empirical data.

Originality/value – This article proposes an original model to shed light on the global phenomenon of parental reliance on private tutoring for their children. The model highlights the following: the dynamic interactions between parents, education policy and private tutoring; the active role of private tutoring providers; and the socio-culturally embedded and complex nature of educational decisions.