I Am Enough: A Decolonial Journey of Conocimiento

Abstract

ABSTRACT Research on Latinx students studying abroad is minimal. As such, our primary research question for this study was: What are the identity-oriented experiences of Latinx students of color on a short-term study abroad program? We use a decolonial theoretical perspective to frame our study. The overarching assertion of a decolonial journey of conocimiento is evidenced in the students’ experiences related to their feeling on the outside and to rebraiding and recasting their identities. Their journeys included personal shifts and transformations where the students were able to grapple with feelings of being an outsider and ultimately, leaned more heavily into their feelings of connection to their language, culture and identity. The findings from our study have implications to consider when taking students of color abroad. In addition, these implications can also benefit teachers in the U.S. context who work with students of color of all backgrounds, Latinx/Transnational students or English Language Learners. In conclusion, we believe that the internal transformations and identity work with which our students engaged were part of the larger decolonial process.