Exploring intersectionality in identity research in multicultural education: Reflecting on the past to forge a more equitable future

Sarah Elizabeth  Schefers

doi:10.20897/apjes/17906

Asia Pacific Journal of Education and Society

Review Article

2026, 14(1), Article No: 3

Exploring intersectionality in identity research in multicultural education: Reflecting on the past to forge a more equitable future

Sarah Elizabeth Schefers ¹ ^*

¹ Mahidol University, THAILAND
^* Corresponding Author

https://doi.org/10.20897/apjes/17906

Published in Volume 14 Issue 1: 14 Feb 2026

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Abstract

This paper used a semi-systematic review of 59 empirical studies and 31 theoretical papers published post-2000 to explore intersectional research in identity development in multicultural educational contexts. The growing emphasis on intersectionality as a critical lens for understanding identity development aligns with recent changes in how identity is conceptualised. Traditional frameworks often overlook the nuanced realities faced by individuals who navigate multiple, often conflicting, identities. Despite progress in intersectional research, significant gaps remain, particularly regarding underrepresented geographical contexts and marginalised ethnic and cultural communities. Many studies focus on discrete identity categories rather than their interplay, leading to a fragmented understanding of identity development. This paper advocates for inclusive research methodologies that amplify the voices of marginalised individuals while recognising the complexities of their dynamically interrelated identities.

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APA 7th edition

In-text citation: (Schefers, 2026)
Reference: Schefers, S. E. (2026). Exploring intersectionality in identity research in multicultural education: Reflecting on the past to forge a more equitable future. Asia Pacific Journal of Education and Society, 14(1), Article 3. https://doi.org/10.20897/apjes/17906

AMA 10th edition

In-text citation: (1), (2), (3), etc.
Reference: Schefers SE. Exploring intersectionality in identity research in multicultural education: Reflecting on the past to forge a more equitable future. Asia Pacific Journal of Education and Society. 2026;14(1), 3. https://doi.org/10.20897/apjes/17906

Chicago

In-text citation: (Schefers, 2026)
Reference: Schefers, Sarah Elizabeth. "Exploring intersectionality in identity research in multicultural education: Reflecting on the past to forge a more equitable future". Asia Pacific Journal of Education and Society 2026 14 no. 1 (2026): 3. https://doi.org/10.20897/apjes/17906

Harvard

MLA

In-text citation: (Schefers, 2026)
Reference: Schefers, Sarah Elizabeth "Exploring intersectionality in identity research in multicultural education: Reflecting on the past to forge a more equitable future". Asia Pacific Journal of Education and Society, vol. 14, no. 1, 2026, 3. https://doi.org/10.20897/apjes/17906

Vancouver

In-text citation: (1), (2), (3), etc.
Reference: Schefers SE. Exploring intersectionality in identity research in multicultural education: Reflecting on the past to forge a more equitable future. Asia Pacific Journal of Education and Society. 2026;14(1):3. https://doi.org/10.20897/apjes/17906

Keywords

identity, intersectional, language and identity, multicultural education, power and identity, educational context

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