The Researcher in the Mirror: An Exploration of the Researcher Perspective in Underachievement

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: Affective Characteristics and Affective Issues

Abstract

Better understanding the phenomenon of underachievement is important for educators and researchers alike. Traditionally, researchers examine the phenomenon through the lens of students, occasionally including the perspective of teachers and parents. Researchers have paid little formal attention to ways in which their own beliefs, experiences, and biases inform their work, despite their influential role in shaping policy and practice. In this qualitative inquiry, the perspective of underachievement researchers serves as the primary lens through understanding the phenomenon. We examined the beliefs and experiences of researchers alongside those of students to illustrate distinctions and overlaps between the two groups. We discuss six major themes, the findings from which have implications about the manner in which we should explore phenomena moving forward.

Authors

• Allison Fowler, University of Louisville

• Kate E. Snyder, Bates College

• Meera Alagaraja, University of Louisville