Conscientization Amid Sensemaking Cycles: A Theoretical Framework for Researching Educational Change in Divisive Times

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 11:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Troubled Organizational Waters: Racial Equity/Inequity, Politics, and Change

Abstract

Amid intense political polarization, achieving stakeholder agreement for educational change is a profound challenge. This paper proposes a theoretical framework to guide future research exploring how diverse stakeholders can collaboratively create durable and inclusive educational reforms. Synthesizing theory from distinct fields, the framework centers on the micro-level processes of sensemaking and conscientization. It integrates vertical (leader-to-stakeholder) and horizontal (peer-to-peer) sensemaking with conscientization—the process of critically reflecting on one’s positionality and assumptions. By exploring the theoretical framework in illustrative vignettes from empirical studies, the paper demonstrates how this framework can illuminate the conditions that enable stakeholders to move toward agreement for transformative changes. This paper offers both academic and practical significance for those seeking to foster agreement in divisive times.

Author

• Gregory Vincent Massara, University at Albany - SUNY