The M.A. thesis focuses on the free time of Roma and other 4th grade pupils from Bela krajina’s primary schools. We tried to determine how Roma pupils define their free time, how much of it they have compared to non-Roma pupils, what activities they do, how they decide on choosing the free time activity, where and with whom they spend their free time, what extra-curricular activities and clubs they participate in, how much risk is involved in the choice of their pastime, and how much they like spending time in the forest and what they do there. The focus was on comparing how the Roma pupils spend their free time compared to their non-Roma classmates. We carried out a survey in the 2022/2023 school year, among sixty-eight 4th grade pupils from two Bela krajina’s primary schools out of which 17 were Roma pupils. We used an online questionnaire and a structured interview to collect data. We analysed data quantitatively and qualitatively.
The results showed that for Roma pupils the most important part of their free time is social contact. They most commonly defined free time as the time when they can play or spend time with their friends. On the other hand, for non-Roma pupils the most important thing is individuality – they most commonly defined free time as a time when they can do whatever they want. Roma pupils most often do activities which include their families (spending time together, playing, talking), while non-Roma pupils, besides family-related activities, most often do school-related activities (doing homework and studying). With the research we came to the conclusion that Roma pupils spend a bit more time indoors than non-Roma pupils. However, in general, both groups spend more time outdoors. They both (Roma pupils even more than non-Roma) spend more time close to home than further away. Roma pupils prefer to spend their free time with their parents, while non-Roma pupils prefer to spend it with their friends. According to the gathered data Roma pupils have fewer organized free time activities – most of them do not attend after-school lessons and extra-curricular activities, and they also do not participate in any clubs outside of school. Both groups like to include some elements of risky games into their free time. Roma pupils mention foul play, rough play and playing close to dangerous elements (fire) more often. The majority of both groups like, or even love, going into the forest. The results of the research can be of use to teachers who will be able to adjust their classes to better suit Roma pupils. With this, we hope to improve their school attendance. The results can also benefit the parents and those planning free time activities.
|
