A multiple case study about making a difference: the ways Oklahoma English/literacy educators practiced self-awareness and developed and exercised their conscientização

Abstract

Using a critical Freirean lens, this multiple case study explores how Oklahoma English/Literacy educators are making a difference inside and outside their classroom through practicing self-awareness and developing and exercising their conscientização. A survey of 59 participants delves into a broad overview of Oklahoma English/Literacy educators’ curriculum ideology, how likely they are to talk and take action about human rights, and their interests in specific human rights. The five case studies further examine how five of the participants are practicing self-awareness, developing their conscientização, and exercising their conscientização. The findings include how through developing their conscientização they have recognized being dismissive and repaired relationships with their students, promoted kindness through their classes, starting exploring their own bias, and understanding their importance of their right to vote.