Voices of children at workplaces: children’s perspectives on their lives at school and work

Abstract

This study aimed to understand children’s perspectives on their school and work experiences. These children were interviewed about their experiences, aspirations, school and work relationships. The study focused on 17 secondary school students who work while enrolled in school. Working children aged 11 to 14 who attended “İşimiz Okumak - Our Job is to Study” courses were chosen as participants using the convenience sampling method. After the children were individually interviewed, the data gathered was analyzed. All of the children discussed aspirations to occupations which necessitate high school or university graduation. Fifteen of the 17 children said they prefer school to work. Overall, feelings were positive towards friends and teachers despite mentions of difficulties at school. They emphasized that their relationships with teachers determined their attitudes towards education. They liked school when the teacher was warm and entertaining. When they felt emotionally rejected or punished by their teachers, their success and attitudes were negatively influenced, thus creating negative attitudes towards education. The data indicated that the children spend substantial amounts of their lives working. They have no time for relaxation, study, or play. Despite exhausting work conditions, the children felt positive about contributing to their family’s budget for household or school expenses. Moreover, the children stated social acceptance was the factor for them to be positive towards a school or work environment. Analysis shows, if children find social acceptance at school, then it is favored; if they find it at work, work is preferred.