How Muslim students perceive Australia and Australians: A national survey

Abstract

Outlined below are selected results of a 5 year long national survey which Dr Abe Ata was commissioned to carry out in Australia. The survey investigated the knowledge, values and attitudes of 430 Year 11 and 12 Muslim students in 10 Muslim High schools towards the mainstream Australian society. The percentage of female participant students (57%) was slightly higher than male students (43%). Almost the entire sample (93%) declared themselves to be Muslim. The findings reflect a wide spectrum of responses with a strong implication that much work is needed to bring about an appropriate degree of adjustment. Providing awareness sessions to students and parents which address critical social, religious and cultural issues including: stereotyping and inclusivity. Another is to explore how Muslim schools promote intercultural understanding. The survey found that students were equally divided on statements that their school teaches them.