Multiple Identities: A Study of Students in an Australian Coptic School

Abstract

This article reports findings from a study of students' identity in a Coptic school in Australia. A mixed methodology approach of quantitative and qualitative data was used to examine students' beliefs and attitudes. The study shows that students have diverse multiple identity structures that include complex national, ethnic and religious identities. The study illustrates how children from ethnic communities in diaspora adopt and embrace multiple values. The study highlights the importance of supporting and maintaining many aspects of heritage as part of an evolving student identity that negotiates multiple roles and memberships in society.