Educating Boys in Jamaica: In Search of a New Lens

• In Event: 25.084 - MTCC Roundtable Session Seven
  In Roundtable Session: 25.084-7 - Educational Change From an International Perspective

Abstract

The need for innovative solutions to enhance educational outcomes for Jamaican high school male students is evident from educational data demonstrating that these students have consistently underachieved. This study explores the possibility of scaling up a student leadership educational model, proven successful in educating an inner city minority male student population in the U.S., to a similarly placed Jamaican high school. Analysis of focus group and interview data conducted with Jamaican stakeholders in education revealed that participants found aspects of the model helpful. However, the possibility of transferring it was perceived to be low due to major interrelated structural and cultural barriers. Jamaican educators preferred to construct their own model of education to respond to their contextual and cultural needs.

Author

• Marcia Sharon-May Chin, University of San Diego