Attitudes and preferences of the marginalized youth concerning educational conditions.

Abstract

Informal education of the marginalized young is a way for their integratation in the general society. The success of the process is linked to its adjustment to the specific needs of the group which stem from its physical and social deprivation and isolation. A research on educational attitudes of the young coming from the unhygenic settlements (YUHS) was conducted. Custom-made questionnaire with multiple choice questions was administered to 148 subjects 15–20 years old, with one half consisting of YUHS and the other of the young from the general population (YGP). Data wasa analyzed using desctiptive statistics (frequences and percentages). YUHS value school more than YGP and assign greater social relevance to it. Studying is valued more if perceived to provide practical skills for finding employment. Education based on respect, acceptance and trust between the teachers and other students, and basic physical conditions for studying at home are needed. YUHS prefer studying by themselves (as opposed to group studying), understandable presentation (as opposed to learning through play), older female teachers and gender – mixed study groups. On the other hand, confusing and uninteresting materials, punishment as behavioural control and discrimination hinder studying. Based on the data, recommendations for adjustment of educational conditions to the YUHS’ needs are formulated.