The secrets of immigrant student success

Abstract

Canada consistently ranks among the top 10 destination countries for international migrants. Over 7.5 million foreign-born Canadians, representing more than one-fifth of the population and over one-third of school-aged students, entered the country through immigration, according to 2016 Census data. Canada was also the first country to adopt multiculturalism officially, with provisions in its Charter of Rights and Freedoms protecting minority rights.

A study published in 2015, ranking Canada first among 38 industrialized nations for anti-discrimination policies, praised its favorable education policies in key areas like access, targeted needs, new opportunities, and intercultural education. However, the study did not examine education policies at the provincial level, as Canada lacks a federal education department, and each province sets its own policies.

Research into the relationship between provincial education policies and immigrant student outcomes indicates positive trends. Provinces like Ontario provide policy guidelines on "Culturally Responsive Pedagogy" and "Antiracism and Ethnocultural Equity in School Boards," while British Columbia has a "Diversity in B.C. Schools" framework. Alberta emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its curriculum framework.

Longitudinal research using OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) data reveals that both first- and second-generation immigrants in British Columbia and Ontario outperformed their non-immigrant counterparts in science literacy. Other provinces, including Alberta, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick, also showed favorable results for immigrant student groups. Despite the global trend of immigrant students facing a significant performance disadvantage, Canada's results are surprising.

The success may be attributed to Canada's immigrant selection policies, favoring those with skills, education, and language proficiency. Yet, the strong performance persists even after accounting for socio-economic factors. Immigrant student outcomes are influenced by various factors, such as age, socio-economic status, and school resources. Schools with a concentration of socioeconomically disadvantaged students tend to pose risks, and immigrants often thrive in inclusive settings.

Overall, Canadian education policies favor culturally-sensitive integration, preserving diverse cultural identities. The approach aligns with Canada's culturally pluralistic society, where minority groups maintain unique identities within the dominant culture. However, challenges remain in promoting culturally effective pedagogy and evidence-based policies, especially against the backdrop of international achievement standards.