Exploring the potential of music education to facilitate children's cross-community activities in Belfast

Odena, O. (2009) Exploring the potential of music education to facilitate children's cross-community activities in Belfast. In: British Educational Research Association (BERA) Annual Conference, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK, 2-5 Sep 2009,

Abstract

This paper discusses a qualitative investigation of practitioners’ perceptions of the key factors for successful cross-community music education activities with Protestant and Catholic communities in Northern Ireland. The methodology and some data from interviews are discussed. It is suggested that Pettigrew’s three stages to reduce conflict between communities (intergroup contact theory) may assist in understanding the interviewees’ experiences. Practical implications for the design of cross-community projects are considered in the conclusions, including the need to offer activities that entice children, parents and schools.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Additional Information: This research was funded by The Bernard van Leer Foundation.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Odena, Professor Oscar
• Authors: Odena, O.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education > Robert Owen Centre
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2009 The Author
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced with permission of the author