We invite you to attend a PhD presentation by PhD Candidate,Fatemeh Irajzad, School of Education. Fatemeh’s supervisors are Carmen Dalli and Mere Skerrett.

Title:  Middle Eastern Children in New Zealand Early Childhood Settings

Abstract: Studies indicate that Middle Eastern children who grow up in another culture deal with racial, religious and cultural discrimination, which can affect their achievement and self-esteem (Derderian-Aghajanian&Cong, 2012). Looking into the literature on diverse cultural groups in New Zealand ECE settings, it is evident that no study has yet focused on the experiences of Middle Eastern children. Therefore, the current research attempts to rectify this situation and raise educators’ awareness with respect to this population through a mixed-methods study. This research has a tri-partite focus firstly on the challenges faced by Middle Eastern children in New Zealand early childhood education (ECE); secondly on Middle Eastern parents’ aspirations for their children’s early education; and finally on ECE teachers’ perspectives and practices with respect to Middle Eastern children and their parents.

Please arrive on time, to avoid disruption for the presenter and other attendees.