SIR Social Sciences Investigation Abstract
EDUCATION AFTER EXODUS
Presenter:
Rachel J. Wright, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Advisor:
Ms. Tracy Townsend, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Abstract:
Every week a group of students attending Aurora schools whose families are receiving support from the Aurora-based World Relief Organization comes to IMSA for "Homework Club," where IMSA students offer tutoring help with homework and refining English and other skills that are valuable for life in the United States. This inquiry project seeks to explore the effects of the personal aspirations and perspectives of a group of refugee students between the sixth and twelfth grades on their motivations for their learning experiences at school and in the tutoring environment. To better understand how to meet the needs of these unique students, it is essential to understand their thoughts on their experiences and to listen to their concerns. To examine these matters I created a survey in the form of an interview to question students on topics including their previous experiences with education, the subjects in school that they find interesting or challenging, and the aspects of "Homework Club" that they enjoy, appreciate, or may like to see changed. The survey also aims to discover the reasons why students come to the tutoring program and the value that it may have for them, as well as their aspirations for the future.