TITLE:
Unveiling a Power Dynamic in a General Science Class through Positioning Theory
AUTHORS:
Cara Tarullo, Ana Houseal
KEYWORDS:
Positioning Theory, College Science Courses, Epistemology
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Philosophy,
Vol.11 No.4,
November
22,
2021
ABSTRACT: Positioning
theory was used to identify interactions between an instructor and student in a
general science class. Using Anderson’s analysis categories and multiple forms of
data provided space to look at typically unseen dynamics. One salient
conversation between the instructor, Courtney and student, Matthew reveals
power dynamics between them. Without this analysis, the instructor, Courtney, appears to hold all the
authority. However, our analysis showed that
Matthew held power to move the class forward. It is unclear if they shared this power at the epistemic level in
addition to the logistical level.