Cultural Clashes and Cultural Bridges: My Story in Afghanistan
[Thesis]
Hinojosa, Joe A., Jr.
Morgan, Bobbette M
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
2019
158 p.
Ed.D.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
2019
Narrative inquiry and grounded theory are the methodology used to tell the story of the researcher's experiences in Afghanistan. This entailed identifying and researching a process of storytelling and weaving experiences together into a coherent and meaningful whole. The narrative inquiry method is appropriate for this project because the critical sources of data consist of the researcher's perceptions and experiences in Afghanistan, as reported in the form of narrative stories. This qualitative analysis focuses on examining and interpreting concrete pieces of evidence, formulating quantitative analysis along with sharing personal and professional experiences. To that end, external resources, including letters and data from numerous sources inform the overarching thesis of the dissertation. Topics examined include education, cultural differences, and levels of acceptance. The pieces of evidence supported by eight years of living in Afghanistan and working with diplomatic officials enriches the insights shared. Narrative inquiry, along with grounded theory, allow for greater understanding and analysis of these issues. Narrative inquiry addresses the qualitative components, while grounded theory addresses the data and evidence that is presented.