Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Analytical Memo-Surprises II

The second theme that has shown up in my data that I did not expect is that of what I initially called student development. After going through a peer review, I am now calling this theme “character development” based upon the codes and quotes. I certainly didn’t expect to see this theme. I have deducted this theme based on quotes from participants such as:

A strengths-based context:

· “allowed me to focus on student development”

· “strengths allowed each individual to have an identifier”

Specifically within character development faith development played a major role. Participants stated:

· “strengths allowed me to challenge college students to live a life serving Christ”

· “allowed me to discuss calling”

· “strengths allowed each individual to have an identifier”

Obviously the participants believed strengths contributed to a setting, which allowed them to address character or identity development and specifically address faith development in traditionally aged college students.

I was surprised to have this component but I really shouldn’t have been. Whereas my filter or lens is that of leadership, the participants had a lens for student growth and development as well as leadership!

I like that these two themes have show up regardless of my lens. This tells me I didn’t skew the data any more than is already established via my personal biases!

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