A grounded theory study on journeying through the shield to sacredness: Ni'hokaa' Diyin Dine'e Idliini Dolzin.

摘要

In doing a grounded theory study, the researcher does not identify a hypothesis, formulate research questions, or state a specific problem at the beginning of the research. Grounded theory research begins with data collection, minimizing preconceptions about outcomes to the greatest extent possible. I began my research with this attitude of not knowing.;My initial substantive area of interest was people within the Navajo educational system and how they react to changes in the use of English vs. Navajo languages in contemporary Navajo culture. I invited participants to whom I had access in my professional environment and community. I invited 35 participants, and only 11 participants volunteered to be interviewed. The open-ended interviews began with a grand tour question, "Could you tell me about some of the roles the Navajo language plays in your life ?" Exploring this problem led me to a newly discovered general topic, related to the spiritual dimension of Dine culture.;The theory that emerged addresses the concerns of Dine /Navajo people on the Navajo Nation. Following the procedures of classic grounded theory methodology, the core variable, Journeying through the Shield to Sacredness: Ni'hokaa Diyin Dine'e Idliini Dolzin emerged. This theory explains how a Dine person is reminded that he or she is sacred and may become an Elder Leader, at the same time going through Journeying through the Shield to Sacredness. This theory may be used by Dine people or anyone that is trying to become an Elder leader who possesses Dine cultural knowledge.