Refugee students in open and distance learning during the Covid-19 pandemic through the eyes of Turkish teachers

Abstract

This study was conducted to identify the problems faced by refugee students during Covid-19 pandemic in open and distance learning and the best examples of practices put into effect to cope with these problems cope and solutions recommended to eliminate these problems, in Turkiye. In the study, the phenomenological research design, which is one of a qualitative research method, was used. By using the criterion sampling technique, a total of 14 teachers who had refugee students were selected as the research participants. Interviews were held with the volunteer participants. The research data were collected by using a semistructured interview form. The descriptive analysis method was used in the analysis of the research data. According to the study findings, the refugee students who did not have the necessary educational technology facilities in open and distance learning process and could not get sufficient family support felt more deeply the language problems which is experienced also by them in face-to-face education. In order to help refugee students with these problems, some school administrations provided the refugee students with tablet and computer support within the bounds of their means. In order to alleviate the effects of the problems faced by refugee students, it is recommended to provide refugee students with educational technology support, making up education and psychological support.