New Peace, New Teachers: Student Teachers' Perspectives of Diversity and Community Relations in Northern Ireland

Source: Teaching and Teacher Education, Volume 25, Issue 3, April 2009, Pages 391-399

The article reflects upon student teachers' conceptions of inter-community relations. It also considers the preparation they receive to address issues of diversity and mutual understanding.

The study in Northern Ireland is set against a backdrop of political, social and educational change, where a shared, peaceful future appears possible.

Student teachers at a Catholic institution and a predominantly Protestant institution indicated a willingness to engage with issues concerning diversity and inter-community relations, despite having a limited knowledge of the concepts.

However they also demonstrated clear views about the relevance and value of the preparation they received. The findings are evaluated using multicultural theory.