Torres Strait Islander students’ experiences transitioning from various locations to Brisbane to undertake university studies
Torres Strait Islander students’ experiences transitioning from various locations to Brisbane to undertake university studies Thesis
Faculty of Education
- Author(s): Fairfoot, G
- Published: 2020
- Publisher: Queensland University of Technology
- Volume: Master of Education
Abstract: The purpose of this research was to ascertain what Torres Strait Islander students who have relocated from various locations around Australia to Brisbane in order to attend university, report have and/or would have assisted them in their transition to a metropolitan area such as Brisbane to undertake their university studies. The focus is on successful completion of university for Torres Strait Islander students. The reason I have conducted this research is because there remains a disparity between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous peoples in relation to university enrolments, retention and completion rates, with the rates of Torres Strait Islander students being considerably lower than their non-Indigenous counterparts. I am interested in what levels of access and support are currently offered to Torres Strait Islander students as they transition to university study. This research has utilised the theoretical framework of Indigenous research theories. I have used the Indigenous Research Principles of Lester Irabinna-Rigney and Indigenous Standpoint Theory put forward by Martin Nakatato facilitate the formulation of knowledge on this topic. The research is positioned from the standpoint of the Torres Strait Islander student participants and researcher. Further, the research incorporated the methodology of yarning, as this methodology is considered appropriate and relevant for use with Torres Strait Islander students, as well as being a methodology which is becoming widespread in the Indigenous research space. Yarning is a form of communication which incorporates ontological ways that Torres Strait Islander people share knowledge. The data collection method was storyboarding, with the research data being presented through the use of personal accounts and analysed using thematic analysis techniques. The findings of this research will contribute to knowledge about how current and future Torres Strait Islander students relocating from various locations around Australia can better transition to university and improve their chances of success whilst at university.
- Urls: https://eprints.qut.edu.au/197684/1/Glen_Fairfoot_Thesis.pdf
- Publisher Location: Brisbane