Conceptualizing Identity in Science Education Research: Theoretical and Methodological Issues

In science education research, identity has been used as a theoretical and methodological tool, particularly to investigate issues related to equality, marginalization, and underrepresentation. However, the diversity of identity theories in the literature makes it difficult for researchers to choose between different ways of conceptualizing identity, which may lead to contradictions in the way in which authors employ this construct theoretically and methodologically in their research. In this chapter, we review the literature in science education research, noting potential contradictions in how identity is conceptualized and operationalized in this research. We suggest a heuristic model that could help researchers choose between different ways of theorizing identity and maintaining consistency in using this construct theoretically and methodologically.

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