ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines theory on resistance and reviews some key studies of resistance in school. It presents a discussion of methodological issues and research procedure, and discusses the elements of discourse analytical method. Sociological analyses of schooling have taken one of two routes: either they link pupil performance to home factors, or they analyse the role of the school as an institution serving the needs of the socio-economic system. Liberal education theories treat poor self-image as a category of personal inadequacy or pain, rather than as an outcome of engagement in oppressive structures. Data analysis requires a theoretical framework that addresses issues relating to internalisation of dominant society’s negative discourse about the minority. Resistance theory and victimage theory provide this framework. The theoretical issue is the validity of applying the title and concept of resistance to the oppositional practices of Travellers, with particular focus on schooling.
