Looking for the Goodness: Portraiture Methodology for Digital Gamers Constructing Identities Across Social Contexts

• In Event: Roundtable Session 14
  In Roundtable Session: Innovative Qualitative Methodologies

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the social interactions and identity constructions of ethnically diverse adolescent males from urban, working-class backgrounds in the process of learning and applying complex mechanics and strategies while engaged in digital gaming. Ethnographic techniques and portraiture methodologies were used to collect and organize data focused on how the male participants in and across settings constructed their individual and group identities. Data were generated from observations, informal and formal interviews, and document analyses focused on how the gamers used language and acted in different situations. One-on-one tutoring of the researcher by the gamers provided additional data about their values, beliefs, communication preferences, and cultural markers. Principles of Identity Theory and Critical Race Theory guided the data analyses.

Author

• Savanna Lynn Jamerson, University of Washington