Discourse as an Identity Kit

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Questions and Answers

What does James Gee refer to as a Discourse?

An identity kit that includes knowing how to engage in a specific context (correct)

An informal conversation among friends

A formal document required for education

A set of vocabulary words used in a specific field

How does Gee describe the acquisition of secondary Discourses?

As something that occurs rapidly if given access and apprenticeship (correct)

As something that cannot happen without formal education

As a skill gained through observation only

As a gradual process requiring constant practice

What is an example of a secondary Discourse mentioned in the content?

Family discussions during dinner

Casual conversations at a coffee shop

The unique language of a sport like baseball (correct)

Formal presentations in a meeting

According to Gee, how is one expected to engage in a Discourse?

With complete fluency or not at all Signup and view all the answers

What is one criticism of Gee's view on how to pick up new Discourses?

It fails to account for natural learning processes Signup and view all the answers

What role does participation play in the acquisition of a Discourse according to Cuddy?

It encourages non-verbal communication strategies Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'taking up space' indicate in terms of Discourse acquisition?

A sign of confidence and presence Signup and view all the answers

Why might someone be seen as a pretender in a new Discourse?

They lack understanding of new terminologies Signup and view all the answers

What is one way that individuals might alter their behavior to fit in at the workplace?

Modifying their word choice Signup and view all the answers

What does James Gee mean by the term 'Discourse'?

An identity kit for adopting specific roles Signup and view all the answers

How does James Gee's perspective on adopting Discourses contradict itself?

He states you must have a primary Discourse and also mention apprenticeship Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what is necessary for someone to assimilate into a new Discourse?

Practicing behaviors associated with that Discourse Signup and view all the answers

What does the saying 'fake it ’til you become it' imply about gaining confidence?

Pretending to be confident can eventually lead to genuine confidence Signup and view all the answers

What does an individual's primary Discourse originate from?

Family and their immediate surroundings Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does Gee suggest one faces when trying to fit into a new Discourse?

The difficulty in altering established identities Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of identity is a primary Discourse intimately connected to?

Cultural and familial background Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Discourse as an Identity Kit

A Discourse is a set of behaviors, language, beliefs, and values that are associated with a particular group or role.
It's like an "identity kit" that comes with instructions on how to act, talk, and write.
Discourses can be adopted through apprenticeship, meaning you learn by observing and participating in the Discourse.
Your primary Discourse is inherited from family and society.

Joining a New Discourse

James Gee argues that you are either fully within a Discourse or not.
According to Amy Cuddy, adopting a new Discourse is possible by participating and exhibiting confident body language, which can make you feel more comfortable and confident.
However, becoming fluent in a Discourse requires time and practice, especially if it's very different from your primary Discourse.
Adopting a new Discourse is not a passive process; you need to actively participate in it.

Secondary Discourses

Secondary Discourses are acquired throughout life, for example, at work or in a specific hobby.
These Discourses often involve a specialized vocabulary that is specific to the activity.
Someone who is not familiar with a particular Discourse will struggle to participate fully.
Becoming fluent in a secondary Discourse requires time and practice.

Workplace Discourse

Discourse in the workplace can be more formal than at home.
For example, language used in the workplace may be more professional.
Adjusting to a workplace Discourse may involve learning new jargon or social etiquette.

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Description

Explore the concept of Discourse as an identity kit, which includes the behaviors, language, beliefs, and values associated with different groups. Understand how to join and adapt to new Discourses through participation and active engagement. Learn about primary and secondary Discourses and the challenges of fluency in new social roles.