An Investigation of Refugee Students in the Inclusive Education System in a Smaller Canadian City

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: Curricular Choices in Multicultural Education

Abstract

The study examines the educational experience of refugee students in the inclusive system at the primary and lower secondary level in a smaller Canadian city. Data were collected through interviews, a focus group, and a discussion meeting with refugee students and educators. Findings revealed that itinerant English as a Second Language services were insufficient to meet the language needs of refugee students. In particular, refugee children in elementary schools were placed at a disadvantage because the academic bridging program was not offered at the primary level. At lower secondary level, there was a need to increase the number of support teachers and more importantly school leaders should collaborate effectively with support teachers to better address the needs of refugee students.

Authors

• Xuemei Li, Memorial University of Newfoundland

• Hua Que, Memorial University of Newfoundland