Ethnic and racial identity in norwegian higher education: a classroom discourse analysis
Type
Master thesisNot peer reviewed

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Date
2014-11-19Author
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Show full item recordAbstract
The increase in foreign immigration into Norway during the last two
decades has led to a progressive transition from a homogenous
population to a multicultural environment. Traditionally, Norwegian
culture places emphasis on identity as defined by ethnicity and
therefore, the potential for stigmatised racialisation of immigrants
exists. This may serve to marginalise individuals and impede
achievement of the essential principles of health promotion.
This study employed the methodology of discourse analysis to
assist in the interpretation of individual attitudes relating to issues
such as race, ethnicity, nationalism, identity, belongingness,
inclusion and exclusion.
Discourse analysis is the critical examination of both spoken and
written communication. Interpretive repertoires are identified, which
facilitate understanding within the cultural context.
Two lectures and two colloquia at the bachelor level at the
University of Bergen were audio-recorded. The eight hours of data
were subsequently transcribed, coded and analysed in Norwegian
before being discussed in English.
Analysis of the classroom discourse indicates that ethnic origin and
whiteness' appear to represent essential concepts to ethnic
Norwegians. Understanding this concept is crucial in interpreting
discourse related to race and racialisation. A close relationship
between biological factors and Norwegian national/cultural
belonging was identified. White privilege may promote a host vs.
guest attitude where the us' and we' characterise the ethnic
Norwegian's view of Norway as a white space.
Discourse analysis of Norwegian bachelor-level classroom
discussions revealed that ethnicity and race represent a central
theme in understanding Norwegian attitudes related to the
challenges associated with immigration and the transition into a
multicultural society.
Publisher
The University of BergenSubject
Health promotionPsychologyDiscourse AnalysisIdentityEthnicityRaceNorwayEthnic IdentityImmigrationHigher EducationEtnisitetImmigrasjonFlerkulturellHøyere utdanningDiskursanalyseHelsefremmende arbeidCollections
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