Investigating Implications for Future Perspectives: A Comparative Case Study of the Status of Modern Greek in South Australian Schools

Abstract

This paper is part of an ongoing study that explores the status of Modern Greek education in South Australia. The study focuses on 6 South Australian Schools from three sectors of education, namely private, public and ethnic schools. A case study design was utilised for this investigation with particular emphasis given to exploring the historical evolution and the community support for Modern Greek education. The study likewise explored the perspectives of students and other key stakeholders with regards to the benefits of Modern Greek language education and Modern Greek language maintenance. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with people who are directly and indirectly involved with Modern Greek education and learning in South Australia. This included teachers, principals of schools, community leaders as well as students, in order to ascertain their perspectives. This inquiry into the status of Modern Greek education in South Australia will provide informative input for community groups, parents, government bodies and schools and, importantly, possibly assist with the development of interventions that benefit the future of Modern Greek study programs in South Australian schools.