From [non] policy to practice: staff’s perspectives on support and services for students of immigrant background in Icelandic universities

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of this qualitative study is to explore how staff at three Icelandic universities attend to the needs of students of immigrant background. The theoretical background includes critical multicultural studies which focus on analysing the position of minority groups in societies and education from a critical perspective [Parekh 2006. Rethinking Multiculturalism: Cultural Diversity and Political Theory. 2nd ed. New York: Palgrave Mcmillan]. Data were collected in interviews with 16 support staff and teachers at three Icelandic universities. Findings indicate that despite the lack of policies, many staff members use their life experience of working, teaching and personal connections with people of diverse background for teaching and for providing support for immigrant students.