The First Stop of Transit Migrant Students on the Road to Europe and America: The Turkish Education System

Abstract

There have been forced migrations from one country to another due to wars, conflicts, and similar reasons within and between countries. Turkey is a transit point from Asia to Europe. Accordingly, this study examines the refugee students' processes and experiences in the Turkish Education System. Therefore, this study is designed based on a qualitative approach as a case study method. The data was obtained through a semi-structured interview and a focus group interview. The information was gathered from nine students—three Syrians, two Iranians, two Iraqis, and two Afghans—as well as five teachers. According to the results, refugee students had difficulty learning and using a new language, adapting to a new country and environment, and getting used to new friends and teachers. The results also indicate that students had concerns about their inability to travel to the United States and European countries.