Exploring children`s motivation in learning : a case study of Rohingya children in Malaysia

Abstract

This qualitative research aims to explore and develop an understanding of Rohingya adolescent refugees motivation in learning. It seeks to examine the Rohingya refugee students` aspirations, needs and motivation towards learning. This study employs case study research design. The data was collected using semi-structured interview questions. There were three sessions of interviews held between 4 Rohingya adolescent refugees whose age are between 12 to 18 years old (2 males and 2 females) with researcher at Muhajireen Educational Centre of Rohingya Children in Ampang, Kuala Lumpur. Focus Group Discussion was employed as it was the best approach to gather rich data from the respondents. The Rohingya adolescents` aspiration focused on helping family to get better life condition through engaging in education. There were three main needs among Rohingya adolescent revealed in this study namely basic survival needs, security in Malaysia and social need. The natures of intrinsic motivation among respondents were self-independent learning, relevant learning and religion as safeguard. The extrinsic motivations available around them were parents, teachers and peers. Lastly, there were barriers that hinder effective learning to be occurred namely physical environment and acceptance of Malaysians towards Rohingya refugee.