Project Background

The researchers for this project will conduct a qualitative case study of Muslim families in Cardiff. This particular location has been chosen because its diverse Muslim population is fairly representative of the range of Muslim traditions and different ethnic groups in the UK. The qualitative research will consist of the following elements:

In 60 families there will be semi-structured interviews with at least one child and usually with two parents (although other family members would also be invited to take part)

In 30 of these families, children will be asked to keep oral diaries (via digital recorders) and to take photographs of places and events with religious significance

In 15 of these families there will also be some observation by the researchers of everyday religious practices.

As well as being presented to academic audiences via a book, journals and conferences, there will be a public event to launch the research for a non-academic audience and a 'family day' for people who participated in the research, which will include child-friendly activities and entertainment. There will also be presentations at practice/policy conferences that are geared towards Muslim organisations and people working with children and families.

We will be recruiting families to take part in the research from June 2008 onwards.

The principal applicant Dr Jonathan Scourfield has relevant experience in research on gender, family welfare and children's national and ethnic identities. The co-applicant Dr Sophie Gilliat-Ray has conducted research on various aspects of British Islam and is the Director of the Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK.

Sameh Otri, a research associate, is a well regarded member of the Muslim community, regularly involved in communal activities amongst diverse Muslim communities and has developed strong bonds within the community. He is passionately committed to a range of volunteer activities through local mosques and Islamic centres throughout South Wales.

Asma Khan is a research associate at the University and has lived in Cardiff for the last six years. With two young children she is well versed in the trials, tribulations and pleasures of bringing up happy, healthy Muslim children!