이주배경 청소년의 눈을 통해 바라본 사회통합의 의미와 방법

The Meaning and Method of Social Integration Experiences Through the Eyes of Immigrant Youth: Using the Photovoice Methodology

In this study, photovoice was conducted for 7 immigrant youths in order to understand social integration in a multicultural society from the perspective of the involved party. In the results, 3 themes and 13 sub-themes were identified. First, sub-themes of ‘the meaning of integration’ were ‘a unified value created by diversity,’ ‘cultural nutrient that create a healthy society,’ and ‘harmonious coexistence of all people,’ and second, sub-themes of the ‘current status of integration’ were ‘duality in school - integration and division,’ ‘prejudice and lack of cultural understanding about being different,’ ‘law and systems that do not reflect the voice of the parties involved,’ ‘double standards according to language group,’ and, ‘the acceptance of the unfamiliar and efforts to understand.’ Lastly, sub-themes of the ‘method of integration’ were ‘equal respect for other cultures,’ ‘reflecting as it is,’ ‘efforts towards mutual communication,’ ‘bridging differences,’ and ‘participation as the owner not as a guest.’ These results suggest future directions as follow: 1st, improvement of contents and directions of multicultural education. 2nd, expanding participation and mutual communication between natives and immigrants at the community level. Based on these results, this study proposes implications related to social welfare for social integration.