Gladys L. Benerd School of Education

Fred Muskal

The theoretical terrain I inhabit is set by G. H. Mead’s theories of social psychology, Strauss’ ideas about grounded theory, Marx’s sensibility to alienation and sensitivity to social class, Durkheim’s understanding of how people relate to society, and Weber’s quest to understand how people see their social relationships.

Given this theoretical terrain, I have a vital interest in how to conceptualize teaching, especially Reflective Practice, in a manner that communicates and helps students develop their own philosophy of teaching.

Second, I am committed to general education and work in that area, because I believe in the concept of the liberal arts college.

Third, I like to research issues related to identity, mobility, mentoring, teaching, classroom interaction, language and learning, and higher education, and I pursue these research interests in my work with doctoral students.

More generally, the kinds of problems that interest me deal with the ways that people see themselves in a social setting and establish a logic to their lives.

This search for how people attribute and act upon meaning leads me naturally to a qualitative research methodology.

My questions can always be answered by words and only rarely by numbers.

How do teachers see their work?

Why do some kids see themselves as dropouts and others as career-bound?

How can we construct categories of meaning to demystify our lack of understanding?

I want to understand how individuals negotiate an identity with the people and institutions in their lives, whether these are family, school, peers, or work.

Education

Research Interests

• Qualitative Methodology
• Urban Education
• Mobility Strategies for Under-Represented Groups
• Social Class Impact on Learning

Educational Administration and Leadership

Gladys L. Benerd School of Education
3601 Pacific Ave.
Stockton, CA 95211

tel: 209.946.3254
fax: 209.946.3110
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