Processes in the Formation of Student and Professional Identities A Study of Education Degree Students in a VET institution

Abstract

A growing body of research in education shows that students opportunities for academic identity development impacts their academic achievement (Vassallo2014). However, despite a recognition of the importance of identity development and the myriad of initiatives to enhance students identity development and sense of belonging, the latter continue to fail to obtain an academic identity (Farrell 1990). Unfortunately, this is so to the extent that many report a negative or insecure academic self-concept and identity, hence shortchanging students in their preparedness when entering increasingly complex professional workplaces. Jensen andJetten(2016) argue that the inability to develop a professional identity limits students understanding of the relevance of their studies and leads to uncertainty, stress, and poor academic achievement.Professional identity is comprised of two distinct professional paradigms: social, which is characterized by doing, and psychological, which is characterized by being. As such attitudes,behaviours,and ethics are as necessary as knowledge,skills,and competences. One without the other presents an incomplete conception of professional identity (Criggerand Godfrey 2014; McCammon and Brody 2012).This paper focuses on the first stage of a three-year research study and looks intothe students positionalities and perspectives of current and future self as they embark on a three-year education degree programme. The researchers use a qualitative approach to understand the students academic and/or professional identities and the life trajectories which led to their current self, with primary data being collected from life histories, reflections, and focus groups. Inductive qualitative content analysis revealed that personalities and lifelong trajectories impact students perceptions and positionalities on a personal, academic, and professional level and that these may limit or enhance growth. Engaging in reflexive practices enhances awareness, leading to liberation and further growth.