Schooling of migrant children in China: Perspectives of school teachers
Li, X.; Zhang, L.; Fang, X.; Stanton, B.; Xiong, Q.; Lin, D.; Mathur, A.
Vulnerable Children and Youth Studies 5(1): 79-87
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 1745-0128 PMID: 34422086 DOI: 10.1080/17450120903193931Document Number: 263584
The impact of family migration on children's schooling has been the focus of much investigation in western countries. However, there are limited data on such impact in China, despite a large number of rural-to-urban migrants. In-depth interviews were conducted among 20 school teachers in Beijing. Findings reveal that barriers for migrant children to attend public schools include extra financial charge and stigmatization resulting from their migratory status. The schools serving solely migrant children were perceived as having poor teaching facilities and lacking adequately trained teachers. Migrant parents were generally perceived as having limited involvement in their children's schooling. Findings suggest that national policy related to the schooling of migrant children should be improved and support from family and society should be emphasized.