My Developing Scholarly Interest -Blog

 

My Developing Scholarly Interests

Early in the semester, I wrote about an area or topic I would like to research. Now it's time to discuss how my ideas have evolved. 

Question one: what is your current research interest?

My current research interest lies in exploring the intersection of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Public Pedagogy Curriculum

Initially, my focus was primarily on how DEI practices in teacher education address issues of race, class, and gender. However, over time, I have broadened my perspective covering not just teacher education but also informal and community-based settings (cultural literacy, and by extension, intercultural competence).  By combining DEI principles with public pedagogy, I aim to explore DEI, and how it can be integrated to enhance rich educational experiences, both within and outside of formal school settings.

Question two: How have your experiences this semester impacted this area of interest?

My research interests have evolved with new insights. No doubt, this semester has been transformative in shaping and expanding my research interests, particularly in the intersection of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and public pedagogy. Through various assignments, professional workshops, and the major courses I took this semester including research, literacy, transcultural studies, and foundations of curriculum. They all broadened my knowledge to understand how I can combine two research areas to form a whole. I have gained deeper insights that have significantly impacted my perspective and approach to this area of study.

One key influence has been my exposure to qualitative research methodologies, which have helped me understand the value of exploring complex social phenomena through rich, narrative-based data. This has reinforced my interest in both DEI and PP, particularly in understanding how informal and community-based educational practices contribute to intercultural learning and by extension inclusion.

Additionally, assignments from classes have encouraged me to critically reflect on the connections between theory and practice. for instance, writing reflective pieces and engaging in class discussions have helped me articulate my thoughts more clearly and refine my research focus. Book club experiences and professional workshops I attended this semester have also been influential.

Question three: Based on what you have learned this semester, what do you see yourself doing when you graduate? How will this connect with your research interest?

When I graduate, I see myself continuing to grow as an educator, whether by pursuing tenure-track positions, that is teaching again, working as a curriculum developer, with an organization that aligns with my research interest or exploring opportunities with NGOs focused on education and advocacy. My passion lies in combining teaching with research to drive social change, particularly in areas related to (DEI) and PP. Working with NGOs would allow me to expand my advocacy efforts, implement community-based educational programs, and contribute to advancing equity both in formal and informal educational settings. 

Where appropriate, you can cite research you have read this semester (and use APA 7 references)

Well, I didn’t cite them, but these are basically the texts and pieces of literature I have read this semester that have greatly shaped my interest and expanded my horizon in these areas.

References

Martin, R. J. (1995). Practicing what we teach: Confronting diversity in teacher education. State University of New York Press.

Giroux, H. A. (2006). Public Pedagogy: Mappings and Culture. In J. A. Sandlin, B. D. Schultz, & J. Burdick (Eds.), Handbook of Public Pedagogy: Education and Learning Beyond Schooling (pp. 45-60). Routledge.