Syrian migrant students' attitudes toward science: A comparative analysis with their Turkish peers, Phase I

Abstract

AbstractIn the context of a cross‐ethnic comparison, this study aimed to determine the attitudes of students from two different ethnic backgrounds (Turkish and Syrian) toward science according to various biological and parental variables. Methodologically, this study was conducted as a quantitative research using the survey method. Data were obtained from 574 Turkish and 321 Syrian migrant students between the ages of 8 and 16. Our findings clearly revealed that certain parental variables, but not gender and age, strongly influence attitudes toward science. It was found that children whose fathers are civil servants, who have more than 100 books at home, and who talk to their parents daily about school or school activities are more advantageous in their attitudes toward science. Hence, based on these results, it can be recommended that families be supported to provide their children with a better quality family environment regarding socioeconomic and psychological aspects to improve children's attitudes toward science regardless of age and gender.