I Don’t Belong Here: Communities of Caring and Vulnerability Through Narrative Analysis

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 11:45 am - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Teaching Research Methods to Diverse Learners

Abstract

This paper examines how narrative analysis and qualitative research can be taught in an online rural EdD program in ways that build a sense of belonging, care, and mentorship. Online doctoral students often face geographic, cultural, and even institutional isolation. Utilizing an ethics of care (Noddings, 1984; 2012; 2015; 2017) and a pedagogy of vulnerability (Author, 2020), we sought to reimagine how to navigate narrative analysis and qualitative research methods, cultivating connection, vulnerability, care, perseverance, and resilience in the online context. Through our shared writings, poetry, and drawings, our work together expanded not only how we approach qualitative research and narrative analysis specifically, but also how we approach the building of belonging and community in online environments.

Authors

• Shelly Melchior, University of West Alabama

• Hazel Nichol Foster, Tuscaloosa City School

• Lisa Heard, University of West Alabama

• Anthony Brock, Valiant Cross Academy

• Felissa Clemons, Valiant Cross Academy