Students at Work: Care work, Neoliberalism, and Survival in Precarious Times
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Authors
Shi, Angela
Date
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
care work , neoliberalism , social reproduction , social reproduction theory , feminist theory , university students , Queen's University , feminist methodology , studying up , time use , politics of time
Alternative Title
Abstract
This research project examines the time use of undergraduate students at Queen’s University, a public university located on Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee land in Ontario, Canada, with a focus on how much time they devote to care work. I argue that the university has become akin to a workplace, and students have accordingly become workers. This research is rooted in feminism theory and methodology, particularly intersectional feminist theory and social reproduction theory. I utilize time-use surveys and interviews to examine the potentially gendered and racialized dynamics of care work among students. I employ the feminist analytical approach of “studying up” by examining structural dynamics through the perspective of the everyday. I thus connect my findings to neoliberal theory and critique, its creation of so-called “life workers,” and the internalization of neoliberal discipline. I also discuss neoliberalism’s and the pandemic’s impact on care work and student time use overall. Finally, I use my interview findings to discuss structural issues at Queen’s University, and offer policy recommendations. I ultimately argue for the importance of centering care in a precarious world.
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Queen's University's Thesis/Dissertation Non-Exclusive License for Deposit to QSpace and Library and Archives Canada
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Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 United States
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 United States