Critical Autobiography as Research

Authors

Anthony Walker, Tarrant County College DistrictFollow

Abstract

Identity is a reflection of how people view themselves within the social structure (Campbell, 2010; Hill & Thomas, 2000). Too often these identities are mirror images of normalized labels and affiliations defined by, and through, social norms and values. Introspective of social constructs and teachings of normalcy, often times one’s identity and status is never questioned (Ramsey, 2004). Juxtaposing systemic thinking with personal knowledge, this article offers insights into the uses and contributions of critical autobiographical research as a both paradigm of research and practice. This article seeks to link the application of critical autobiography with educational practice and theory to promote social justice, identity development, and lifelong learning.

Keywords

Autobiographical Research, Narrative Inquiry, Identity Development

Author Bio(s)

Anthony Walker, Ed.D., received his Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northern Kentucky University; his Master’s degree in Counseling from Texas Christian University; and his Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University. He currently serves as the Director of Student Success and Online Advising at Tarrant County College. Throughout his career, Anthony has focused on integrating principles of social justice and inclusiveness in action into his work as a high school teacher, program coordinator, academic advisor, administrator, and adjunct faculty member. His current role includes working with district-wide initiatives and programs designed to increase student success, retention, and completion. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Anthony maintains an emphasis on using education as a platform to research and deconstruct intersections of difference, processes of identity development, institutional responsibility, and systems of privilege to advocate for social justice and equity. Correspondence regarding this article can be addressed directly to: walkeranthony@hotmail.com.

Publication Date

7-17-2017

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.

DOI

10.46743/2160-3715/2017.2804

Recommended APA Citation

Walker, A. (2017). Critical Autobiography as Research. The Qualitative Report, 22(7), 1896-1908. https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2017.2804