Exploring the influences on classroom-based contact via shared education in Northern Ireland

Abstract

Initiatives in intercultural education have frequently involved the promotion of contact between members of different groups as a means of improving intergroup relations. Experience from Northern Ireland suggests, however, that such schemes have often been organised and delivered in such a way that opportunities for sustained, high-quality contact are limited. This paper considers processes of contact in one relatively recent initiative, “shared education”, which involves collaboration between separate schools to deliver classes to Catholic and Protestant pupils in mixed groups. Employing qualitative methods of observation and interviewing to capture participants’ experiences of contact, the research explores the influences on the quality and frequency of cross-group interaction in the shared class. With findings highlighting the subject and pedagogy, teacher’s approach and classroom arrangement as key factors, the study offers suggestions for policy and practice to enhance opportunities for contact and relationship-building in mixed classes.

Keywords:

• Social cohesion
• intercultural education
• classroom practice
• intergroup relations

Notes

1. From September 2015, shared education is being delivered through the Shared Education Signature Project coordinated by the Department of Education.

2. Certificate of Personal Effectiveness.

3. In Northern Ireland, particular sports have traditionally been associated with one of the two communities and this is reflected in rates of participation. While hockey and rugby have been identified with the Protestant/unionist community, Gaelic sports such as hurling, camogie and Gaelic football have strong Catholic/nationalist associations.