Intergroup dialogues can create a safe environment that encourages individuals to engage in self reflection. This article has examined identity exploration processes among undergraduate students (N=99) who have participated in a dialogue course. A content analysis was undertaken on final papers submitted by students at the end of the course. The summary papers, written as part of their obligations for academic credit, included a description of student experiences during the course. Findings have pointed out several factors that have enabled self-exploration in the group and the dialogue course was fulfilling for most students. The participants felt that the dialogue had helped them form a greater understanding of their identities through two levels of discourse: with the 'self' and with 'the other'- however, findings also indicated a process that appears to disrupt a 'deep' and authentic discourse and can be considered as a contestation of identity. The contribution of this research lies in investigating how identities are shaped within a context of intergroup dialogues and in proposing several hypotheses and questions to advance the research in this field.

Authors:
Lipaz Shamoa-Nir, Zefat Academic College, Israel

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Lipaz Shamoa-Nir is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at Zefat Academic College in Israel

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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