A narrative inquiry: Eight urban high school students share about their lives and experiences in school

Abstract

This qualitative study focused on what eight urban high school students from varying backgrounds had to say about their lives and experiences in school. Discussions with the students involved multifarious topics such as racism, stereotypes, and discrimination and influences in and outside of school that encourage or hinder their education. The theoretical perspectives of critical theory, critical pedagogy, and critical multiculturalism and the narrative inquiry approach to research provided the foundation for this study. Individual narratives and narratives of the student group discussions are shared. The students provided insightful assessments of their schooling experiences and reported they desire greater forums for them to discuss cultures, race, and other issues important to their lives for purposes of influencing much needed change.