Educational Aspirations, Opportunities, and Challenges for Immigrants in University Education in Iceland

• In Event: Internationalization in Higher Education

Abstract

The increase in immigration around the world brings new opportunities and challenges to educational settings. Studies have shown that many immigrant students are socially disadvantaged, have difficulties in integrating in the host countries and are underrepresented in institutions of higher education. This paper’s objective is to explore immigrant students´ and staff members´ experiences of teaching and support in three universities in Iceland, as well as the regulatory policies of these universities in regard to immigrant students. It is a qualitative study involving focus groups and individual interviews. The findings show that there is lack of clear policies regarding immigrant students, formal and informal support mechanisms and training of teachers and staff in intercultural education and culturally responsive practices.

Authors

• Hanna Ragnarsdottir, University of Iceland

• Anh-Dao Tran, University of Iceland