Intersectional Identities, Othering, and Engagement in Diverse Online Learning Community

• In Event: Honoring Diversity in Online Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Online communities may initially appear to be more inclusive than traditional communities. However, socio-cultural biases exist in online spaces. Students who are not part of the dominant demographic or culture may feel “othered” in these spaces. Their intersectional identities and positioning within the group contributes to this feeling. This multiple case study explores the relationship between students’ feeling of othering based on their overlapping identities and their engagement in online learning. It examines how active participation may be inhibited based on identity and the sense of being other. Findings highlight the ways that online students’ feelings, perception, and behaviors related to their intersectional identities in online learning. Pedagogical implications are offered for designing inclusive activities and inclusive online facilitation strategies.

Authors

• Hajeen Choi, Bowling Green State University

• Omer Arslan, Florida State University

• Dan He, Florida State University

• Vanessa Paz Dennen, The Florida State University