Considering Race and Identity in the Context of Social Studies Teaching and Learning

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 1:45 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Sociopolitical Consciousness and Identity Formation for Subject Area Teachers (Table 10)

Abstract

This qualitative case study engages racially diverse social studies educators to examine how their identities inform their teaching. The work is grounded in anti-colonial and critical frameworks. Specifically, the participants and I engaged in interviews and focus group conversations to examine how racial identity and racialized experiences inform secondary social studies educators' career choices, professional goals, and perceived roles and responsibilities in the classroom. Furthermore, given the diversity among the participants, this work contributes to scholarship that examines how educators’ lives and identities shape their teaching journeys. The findings provide insights into how educators are experiencing and reacting to this highly polarized and politicized moment for education and possible improvements in preparation and support.

Author

• Alexander Pittman, Colorado State University