Identity Play in Horizon-Expanding Spaces Through Critical Place-Based Learning for Middle School Youth

• In Event: Identity and Career Interest in Science Education

Abstract

Identity play, a construct from organizational studies, is the exploratory process of trying out various narrations and performances of provisional selves. We asked: what are features of horizon-expanding spaces that promote identity play at a two-week at a two-week, critical place-based learning camp for middle school youth? We define horizon-expanding spaces as those which may not be currently aligned with youths’ prior interests and identities. Video and interview analysis indicated three fertile horizon-expanding activity for identity play: forging new connections to place, advocacy, and futuring. This study demonstrates how STEM activity can be made relevant in practice and how identity play can help theorize the forging new identities in ways that complement the classic identity wok construct.

Authors

• Heidi Carlone, Vanderbilt University

• Hannah H. Ziegler, Vanderbilt University

• Tessaly Jen, Vanderbilt University

• Jingyi Chen, Vanderbilt University

• Zachary C. Conley, Vanderbilt University

• Alison Mercier, University of Wyoming