Practitioner to Researcher: A Narrative Inquiry Into Three Teachers' Lived Experiences of Their Transition Process

• In Event: 53.081 - Roundtable Session 21
  In Roundtable Session: 53.081-9 - Tensions and Wonders About Narrative Inquiry Methodology

Abstract

This narrative inquiry explores the lived experiences of three doctoral students making the transition from long-time practitioners to researchers in the field of curriculum and special education. Serving as both researchers and participants, conversational interviews were conducted with each other in order to explore beginning research experiences. Points of resonance and dissonance were examined using the three-dimensional narrative inquiry spaces. Spaces where stories intersected include lessons learned, ongoing emotional reactions, moments of clarity, and concerns for the future. The lived experiences provide insight into the process of becoming researchers. These stories may provide other doctoral students with validation as they make this journey. Universities may develop a better understanding of these experiences in order to better support beginning scholars.

Authors

• Michelle Novelli, Northern Arizona University

• Kathleen Abou-Rjaily, Northern Arizona University

• Holly B Luganob, Northern Arizona University

• Vicki Ross, Northern Arizona University