Decolonizing Alberta’s Educational Policies to Make Possible the Integration of Refugee Youth Learners
Abstract
Permitting entrance into the borders of Canada to migrants as asylum seekers opens yet a new chapter in the lives of these migrants. It is as though while they are being identified as asylum seekers or refugees, their identities and histories are simultaneously being erased. This article discusses the lack of educational policies that address the needs of refugee learners. Policies can serve to include or exclude refugee youth learners in educational contexts. A holistic approach to refugee education will lead to better outcomes for refugee youth. Positive policies include: welcoming atmosphere in schools; child-centered learning; community programing; supporting foundations.
Notes
Community organizations
NA
Location
Alberta
Integration timeline
At what point during the integration process the study was conducted?
NA
Key recommendations
A more holistic approach to refugee education will lead to better outcomes for refugee youth. Positive policies include: Welcoming atmosphere in schools; Child-centered learning; Community programing; Supporting foundations.
Key populations
Refugee youth
Key findings
Policies can serve to include or exclude refugee youth learners in educational contexts. A holistic approach to refugee education will lead to better outcomes for refugee youth. Positive policies include: Welcoming atmosphere in schools; Child-centered learning; Community programing; Supporting foundations.
Gaps identified
Current global policies re: refugees mean many refugee youth face exclusion in schools
Open-access – No