Waarom stichten jullie niet een eigen school?: religieuze identiteitsontwikkeling van islamitische basisscholen 1988-2013

Abstract

This study describes how the interpretations, aspirations and school identity development of Islamic primary schools developed in the period 1988-2013. It gives an overview of the most important turning points for Islamic education and how these turning points have influenced identity development.

In this study, the administrators and directors of Islamic primary schools who have at least 10 years of experience in identity development are interviewed. This research shows how complex and diverse the identity of Islamic primary schools is. The main internal and external factors and actors that have influenced the development of school identity are discussed. National and international events have led to a social debate in which the role of Islamic primary schools regarding the integration of Muslims has been questioned. Partly because of this negative attention, Islamic schools have changed from introverted to extroverted organisations. This discussion has also led to unequal treatment of these schools. This research shows precisely how important these schools are for the emancipation of Muslims in the Netherlands. After all, Muslims themselves take the responsibility for education. Islamic primary schools are typical Dutch schools that make an important contribution to a safe pedagogical climate.