Student Diversity in Northern Ireland's Secondary Schools: Benefits and Challenges

• In Event: 15.051 - International Perspectives on School Climate and Student and Teacher Engagement

Abstract

This study examined cultural diversity in Northern Ireland’s secondary schools. It asked, What role do varied approaches to student diversity play with respect to instruction, school culture, and student attitudes toward diversity? Three cases were examined: a formally integrated school, a shared education partnership, and a circumstantially integrated school. Data included classroom observation, staff interviews, and student focus groups. Findings: integration of students from immigrant families was a major focus of attention; Protestant-Catholic integration received less attention; affirmation of student cultural identities through schoolwide activities appeared to promote positive attitudes toward diversity more effectively than a respect-for-all approach; benefits from shared education, though notable, appeared to require massive effort by school staff relative to impact.

Author

• James H. Nehring, University of Massachusetts - Lowell