Browsing by Subject "maahanmuuttajaoppilas"

Objectives. Nowadays, there are more and more immigrant students in schools. Often, an immigrant student has a plural identity because the values and culture at home might be different of the ones in the society. That’s why immigrant student’s different identities might be in contradiction. Therefore, it is important to support identity development in schools. Also, the newest curriculum of comprehensive school (POPS 2014) mentions that the school has an important role when it comes to a student’s identity development. Anyhow, not much research can be found about how to support the identity development in schools. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine, how schools can support immigrant students’ identity development. Methods. This study is an integral literary review. The material consisted of six international research articles which examines how students balance themselves between different identities and the role of a school when it comes to the identity development. The material was compiled from three different electronic databases. The study was analysed by using an inductive content analysis. Results and conclusions. The results of this study showed that schools have an important role when it comes to immigrant students’ identity development. Fostering certain values supported identity development. For instance, valuing different cultures, religions and differences as well as self-respect was important. Also, the used methods effects on immigrant students’ identities. For example, giving clear instructions and choosing exercises adapted for students with weak language skills as well as learning from other cultures enhanced immigrant students’ identity development. In addition, collaboration between school and home and respecting each other’s values supported immigrant student’s identity development too.