Becoming a Youth Activist in the Internet Age: A Case Study on Social Media Activism and Identity Development

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  • Author(s): Fullam, Jordan
  • Language:
    English
  • Source:
    International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education (QSE). 2017 30(4):406-422.
  • Publication Date:
    2017
  • Document Type:
    Journal Articles
    Reports - Research
  • Additional Information
    • Availability:
      Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
    • Peer Reviewed:
      Y
    • Source:
      17
    • Education Level:
      High Schools
      Secondary Education
    • Subject Terms:
      Case Studies; Activism; Social Media; Identification (Psychology); High School Students; Telecommunications; Planning; Social Responsibility; Semi Structured Interviews; Family Relationship; Peer Relationship; Mentors; Adults
    • Subject Terms:
      New Jersey (Newark); New York (New York)
    • Accession Number:
      10.1080/09518398.2016.1250176
    • ISSN:
      0951-8398
    • Abstract:
      This paper draws on a case study of one youth activist, and explores connections between social media activism, identity development, and critical education. Justin Rodriguez, a 17-year-old high school student in Newark, New Jersey, leveraged social media and texting as organizing tools and garnered support for a school walkout to protest education budget cuts. Drawing on the Listening Guide interview method and Justin's narrative of his experiences, the study explores the question: Does social media activism have implications for how we understand the development of youth activist identities? The findings suggest Justin's development as a youth activist was mediated, not produced, by social media activism; and Justin developed as a youth activist through various forms of interaction that included social media and face-to-face relationships. The paper also explores the supports provided by adult mentors that were important in Justin's development as an activist, including education for critical consciousness and opportunities for Justin to participate in civic venues.
    • Abstract:
      As Provided
    • Number of References:
      57
    • Publication Date:
      2017
    • Accession Number:
      EJ1128390