Learning Through Stories: Life Story Methodologies in the Study of Higher Education

Session Submission Type: Symposium

Abstract

The purpose of this symposium is to explore the potential for life story methodologies in the study of higher education. Taking a liberal understanding of what life story might mean methodologically, the presenters in this symposium will each describe how they engage in life story projects, highlighting key epistemological, theoretical, and/or methodological differences across the presenters. Each presenter will address particular ethical, theoretical, or methodological tensions at stake in their different approaches to life story work (e.g., testimonio, life history, critical life story, and postmodern performance (auto)ethnography). Additionally, presenters will share their ideas about the significance of using life story methods in the context of higher education.

Sub Unit

• Division D - Measurement and Research Methodologies / Section 3: Qualitative Research Methods

Chair

• Clifton F. Conrad, University of Wisconsin - Madison

Papers

• The Personal Politics of Doing Oral History - Marybeth Gasman, University of Pennsylvania

• Studying Lives: Ethical Imperatives and Opportunities in the Postmodern Condition - Ryan Evely Gildersleeve, University of Denver

• A Critical Ethnographer Tells Life Stories: Attempts at Equality and Engagement With African American Women - Rachelle Winkle-Wagner, University of Wisconsin

• Situating Privilege in Stories About Oppression: Reflecting on the Challenges of (Re)presentation - Michelle M. Espino, University of Maryland - College Park

Discussant

• Clifton F. Conrad, University of Wisconsin - Madison