Algerian Muslim parents' perspectives on the purpose of Quranic schools: a phenomenological study

The study investigates Muslim parents’ perspectives on the purpose of Quranic schools within the socioculturaland religious context of Algeria. It is guided by four research questions: first, what AlgerianMuslim parents say about the nature and character of Quranic schools; second, how they view the roleof these schools in their children's cultural and religious socialisation; third, what motivates theirdecision to enrol their children in Quranic schools; and finally, the challenges these schools face andpotential ways to address them. This is a qualitative study using a phenomenological research approachto capture the ‘essence’ of Quranic schools’ purpose, based on analysing various parental experiencesand perspectives, including triangulating data with views from Quran teachers, administrators, andimams involved in these schools. A total of 25 participants (n=25) took part in semi-structuredinterviews conducted between March and July 2023 in Algeria. Data analysis followed Colaizzi’s sevenstagephenomenological method to ensure rigour and trustworthiness. Drawing on relevant conceptsrelated to children’s faith formation, the conceptual analysis provides nuanced insights into the role ofQuranic schools and why parents justify their existence within Algeria’s cultural and religiousframework, including rebutting claims that these schools promote Islamist fundamentalism. The studyconcludes by emphasising the crucial importance of parental support for Quranic schools, in line withbroader societal needs, in fostering children within the Muslim community, or Ummah.