Since the main focus of my paper has become the idea of “identity-work,” (explained in last blog post) my research has become more and more sociological. Many sociologists ideas are brought up in various cases and articles as well as many terms and concepts that stem from the field of sociology. For example, one term that is relevant to students taking a gap year is Bourdieu’s concept of cultural capital. Cultural capital refers to the social assets of a person (education, intellect, style of speech and dress, etc.) that promote social mobility in a stratified society. Students who take a gap year develop skills, relationships, and connections which are later used as a form of cultural capital wen they return to university and future career paths.
The use of academic terms like identity work and cultural capital, as well as “the personality package” and emerging adulthood, is a constant reminder of what my paper should be about and what topics are extremely important to focus on as well as develop throughout my research and the writing of my final paper.
So far, the most influential academic source I have fond has been Minding the Gap? by Andrew King. In his case study he interviews students who have taken a gap year which is not only beneficial to my research but also interesting to read. He also gives a great background to the main ideas of identity work and other key concepts regarding the gap year. I will use this piece both as a starting point for major ideas as well as for specific details about certain students cases.
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