11.011 - PDC02: Autoethnography: Bringing the Known Into Action to Create More Equitable Opportunity

Session Type: Professional Development Course

Abstract

The purpose of this course is to provide information to graduate students, prospective and novice university professors, and other participants about how to use autoethnographic research methods to incorporate the known worlds and realities of researchers and educators into actions designed to help create more equitable opportunities for all. This course will target qualitative and mixed-methods researchers longing for a methodological alternative from neutral, anonymous, and objectivist orientations to educational policy and practice. Instead of ignoring assumptions or viewing them as limitations, autoethnography allows educational researchers to unravel oftentimes concealed perspectives in order to move other researchers and educators to action on behalf of educational equity issues and concerns. Information will be provided related to understanding the history of autoethnographic work as well designing, completing, and representing autoethnographic research in ways that push for justice and equity. Participants will leave our course equipped to begin the process of adding autoethnography as an alternative tool in their methodological toolkits. The course will specifically focus on establishing a community of critical colleagues and friends.

Sub Unit

• Professional Development and Training Committee