Sri Wahyuningsih, Yazid Basthomi, Nunung Suryati, Maria Hidayati
This study investigates the complex and underexplored processes of research identity development among Indonesian EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teacher educators in resource-constrained university settings. Guided by an interpretive phenomenological narrative inquiry, the study involved two experienced female educators from a public and an Islamic university in Central Java. Through thematic analysis of in-depth interviews, the study revealed that participants’ research identities were shaped by formative academic experiences, institutional roles, and professional transitions. However, their development was significantly hindered by personal challenges (e.g., time constraints and limited research expertise), sociocultural barriers (e.g., lack of collaboration and research culture), and institutional limitations (e.g., scarce resources, insufficient mentorship, and low financial support). In response, participants adopted adaptive strategies such as strategic time management, self-funded development, and participation in academic networks. These efforts enabled them to achieve scholarly milestones, including publications, national recognition, and doctoral scholarships. The study demonstrates the need for context-sensitive, sustained institutional support to promote meaningful research engagement and identity growth in under-resourced academic environments. © 2026 Common Ground Research Networks. All rights reserved.
Department of English, Faculty of Letters, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia; Department of English, Faculty of Letters, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia; Department of English, Faculty of Letters, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia; Department of English, Faculty of Letters, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia
