The Construction of Student Subjectivity: A Way for Children to Participate in School?

Abstract

The aim of this article is to reflect on the construction of student subjectivity which, though shaped by specific social demands, is established through a complex process that includes generational conflicts - if we consider that Western society is adult-centered and that the school project is produced by older people. Considering the complexity involved in this process, the aim is to understand what loopholes children find, when playing the role of student, to transform what they receive, and what paths are enhanced for their participation. The theoretical framework is based on the field of childhood studies and critical social studies. We also used the analysis of a field study carried out with 31 children enrolled in the 5th year of a public elementary school in the city of Rio de Janeiro, specifically during the production of seven books by the children. By intertwining fiction and reality, they give clues about their experiences of being both a child and a student, projecting their aspirations for school and the role they play in it. Singular issues claim space in their books, informing us that these are important aspects to produce student subjectivity.