Contemporary Blogs as Critical Communication Pedagogical Tool: Incorporating http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.com into Class Discussions

• In Event: Pedagogies of Whiteness

Abstract

This research project seeks to extend current research that focuses on “teaching about whiteness” (Martin & Davis, 2001, p. 298) in the field of communication. Toward this goal, we utilize the interracial and interpersonal communication classroom as [auto]ethnographic sites for exploring how discussions of essentialism can include examples from all racial/ethnic groups, including Whites. More specifically, we draw from critical communication pedagogy (Fassett & Warren, 2007) to explore how one blog, (http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.com), can be utilized as means to facilitate classroom dialogue. Particular attention is paid to how various factors (e.g., particular focus of the class, racial/ethnic dynamics of the class) may influence the website’s effectiveness as pedagogical tool. In sum, our study features a thematic analysis of our experiences in attempts to locate whiteness in different communication classes. In addition to generating insight in terms of pedagogy and whiteness generally, it will also explore the desired/undesired and anticipated/unanticipated consequences of attempts to re-centralize White students in discussions of racial/ethnic diversity.

Authors

• A. Elizabeth Lyons, Western Michigan University

• Mark Orbe, Western Michigan University