Understanding Issues of Diversity in Higher Education: A Duoethnographic Study

• In Event: Redefining Relationships and Spaces in Higher Education Through Qualitative and Duoethnographic Explorations

Abstract

This exploration that involved a white female professor and a black male graduate student exposed complex differences in their beliefs and assumptions as a result of diverse lived experiences. The purpose of this duo-ethnographic study was to expose and interrogate our personal narratives about issues of diversity (i.e., race, gender, sexual orientation) that have arisen in our lived experiences within the context of two Canadian universities. The process of sharing our personal narratives, reflecting on them together, and allowing the discussion to take root provided an opportunity to develop deeper common understandings and to critique our personal beliefs and assumptions.

Authors

• Jacqueline H. Kirk, Brandon University

• Ayodeji Tolulope Osiname, Brandon University