Moonwalking with the Pasifika Girl in the Mirror: An autoethnography on spaces in higher education

Abstract

This dissertation is an autoethnography within a broad qualitative research paradigm. This autoethnography navigates the positionality of a Pasifika girl through the spaces at the University of Auckland. Having studied and interacted at all three campuses (Manukau, Epsom and Auckland) of the University of Auckland, this dissertation examines the complexities of physical spaces (campus locations, classrooms and hallways) as well as the social spaces (relationships, identity and culture). This dissertation also discusses the life of the Pasifika higher education student whilst studying and discusses the matters of the heart (Pelias, 2004). Bhabha’s (1994) idea of third space is coupled with a Samoan term the Va’ (Amituanai-Toloa, 2007; Tuagalu, 2008; Wendt, 1999) to create a Pasifika conception of third space which is used as a means to, critically analyse culture alongside physical and social spaces in higher education. I am hopeful that new knowledge and new perspectives are created by all who read this dissertation. Welcome to the journey of higher education through the lenses of a Pasifika girl who started out her journey moonwalking.