Stories, Subjectivity, and Using Nontraditional Forms When Working With Non-Western Immigrants

• In Event: Roundtable Session 15
  In Roundtable Session: Innovations in Qualitative Research Design

Abstract

In this qualitative life history study I explore the interconnections of culture, immigrant experiences and teacher identity by collecting the narratives of immigrant teachers. Apart from being the researcher I assume the role of a co-participant and include my insights as a Kenyan immigrant teacher in the data. In the proposed session I will present the joys and challenges of conducting a qualitative research study with non-western immigrant teachers. I will discuss the methodological dilemmas I encounter and how a postcolonial framework informs my data collecting and analysis decisions. Finally I will share the non-traditional ways I report my findings with the use of story, metaphor, call-and-response as well as a variety of other non-western literary and oratory styles.

Author

• Ndindi Kitonga, Bard College