Barriers to Inclusion of Minority Language Minors in Norwegian and Dutch education: A comparative analyses of various reported voices connected to education

Abstract

With the increase of immigrants in Norway and the Netherlands, it is increasingly important to have an inclusive education system that sets every minor up to succeed. This comparative research considers the barriers of inclusion to quality education for minority language minors in Norway and the Netherlands. Using UNESCO’s (2008b) inclusion framework, the content of 70 media sources were analysed to give insight to the types of barriers and suggested solutions. A holistic approach is taken that examines and compares the different voices that were heard in each country. The data discusses three categories of barriers: racism, unqualified teachers and segregation. Norway’s sources focussed more on long-term effects of racism and the sense of belonging and the those of Netherlands focussed more on getting enough skilled teachers in front of classrooms with a large minority language population. Both countries are concerned with barriers regarding segregation. This concern indicates that the Dutch and Norwegian education systems are underprepared for the presence of minority language minors in all classrooms. Additionally, the curriculum in both countries does not leave enough room for a language delay. This means that not all minority language minors are able to adequately follow classes, which impacts the participation and achievements of pupils. Lastly, the voices reported in the data are mainly majority groups that talk about minority language minors. Teachers are especially concerned about the future that is in reach for minority language minors. An unsupportive social context hinders the feeling of inclusion amongst minors. Whilst the majority population recognises some of the barriers in place, there is little willingness to actively support the removal of barriers. The results of this study indicate that there is a long way to go before Norway and the Netherlands can provide inclusive, quality education to all minority language minors.