Navigating Cultural Identities: Challenges and Opportunities for Preservice Teachers in Hawaii’s Multicultural Context

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 1:45 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Division K - Section 03: Indigenous Teaching and Teacher Education Roundtable Session 1 (Table 7)

Abstract

This study explores the challenges and opportunities faced by preservice teachers in Hawaii as they navigate their cultural identities in the context of an imperfect multiracial democracy. The research examines how these challenges shape their perspectives on young children’s identities and the field of early childhood education. Using a sociocultural framework and qualitative content analysis, the study analyzes reflections and narratives to understand the complexities of cultural, ethnic, and geographic identity formation. Findings reveal the intricate interplay of identities in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander community, offering insights into cultural awareness and its impact on educational interactions with young children. These insights have significant implications for educational practice, policy, and the broader goal of just education renewal.

Author

• Shin Ae Han, University of Hawai‘i at Manoa