Imagine if language barriers, unfamiliar systems, and everyday challenges constrained your dreams for your children's education. In the heart of Western Sydney's diverse communities, immigrant parents face this reality as they navigate their children's educational pathways. This research explores how their perceptions, challenges, and aspirations influence their children's pathways to university education.
The challenge
In Western Sydney's diverse communities, significant barriers stand between immigrant parents and their children's educational dreams. While Australia prides itself on educational equity, the reality for many immigrant families reveals a different story. Parents who have crossed oceans to give their children better opportunities find themselves navigating an educational maze where language difficulties and systemic challenges turn simple school interactions into daunting obstacles.
Our research reveals that immigrant families face multiple challenges daily: language barriers limit meaningful engagement with schools, financial pressures force difficult choices between immediate family needs and long-term educational investment, and complex university pathways remain unclear to parents trying to guide their children's academic futures. How do we ensure these challenges do not become permanent educational barriers?
Solution
UTS Business School researchers conducted a comprehensive study examining the connection between home environment, parental influence, and educational outcomes in immigrant communities to address these educational challenges. Through a strategic partnership with Punchbowl Boys High School, we extensively consulted with families and educators to understand the full spectrum of experiences and needs.
The research involved in-depth interviews with parents and school staff members, providing crucial insights into the complexities of supporting immigrant students' educational journeys. This systematic investigation focused on understanding parental aspirations, documenting effective engagement strategies, and identifying practical support mechanisms that could enhance educational outcomes.
Outcome and impact
The research improved understanding of home environments as foundations for learning success while identifying critical improvements needed in school-parent communication strategies. These findings have led to practical recommendations for educational institutions, including targeted language support programs, comprehensive parent education initiatives about university pathways, and strengthened school-community partnerships. Implementation requires sustained support and resources to develop effective, long-term programs.
This research contributes to building an education system that recognises and supports the immigrant parents’ role In their children’s academic success. The long-term vision is to create educational environments where every parent's voice matters and the dreams nurtured at home can flourish on school grounds. Ultimately, this research represents a significant step toward ensuring equitable access to higher education for all students.
Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
Reduce inequality within and among countries
Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
