transforming conversations: Educating Be-longing: Education, Migrant Integration and Belonging
filiz keser aschenberger
This presentation explores the dual role of education in shaping the sense of belonging among migrant populations. Education is crucial for social integration, equipping migrants with the skills and resources needed to navigate new environments and fostering a sense of community. However, educational systems can also inadvertently perpetuate inequalities and exclusion, creating barriers that hinder migrant students’ experiences and sense of belonging.
We will examine how education can both support and undermine migrant integration. Key issues such as language barriers, culturally irrelevant curricula, and limited access to resources often exacerbate these challenges. Furthermore, discriminatory practices and policies within schools can marginalize migrant students, affecting their academic success and overall well-being.
This presentation will critically analyze the relationship between education and belonging, highlighting strategies for creating inclusive environments that promote cultural understanding, social cohesion, and a sense of community among migrant students. Conversely, we will also address how certain educational practices can perpetuate exclusion and inequalities, offering insights into how these issues might be addressed to foster a more inclusive educational experience.
