Manifestations of professional identity work: an integrative review of research in professional identity formation

Figures & data

Figure 1. Schematic representation of compilation of dataset.

Figure 2. Coding framework identifying inductively developed codes and analytical categories.

Table 1. Indicative learning activities supporting each aspect of professional identity work.

Category	Focus	Indicative learning activities	Aims / outcomes
‘Becoming’	Learning, development and personal growth	Teaching requisite knowledge, skills,values, norms, behaviours (‘professionalism’) through case studies, role play and simulations Opportunities to gradually develop independence and confidence e.g. through work-based learning	Enabling students to practise in their chosen profession after graduation
‘Aligning’	Bringing into alignment own priorities with professional expectations	Engagement with own values and priorities through critical reflection Learning about professional values, norms, behaviours in practice (e.g. role models, mentoring) through internships and shadowing in different professional specialisms and roles	Enabling students to identify their own values and priorities and to bring them in alignment with professional expectations
‘Exploring’	Finding the ‘right' niche in the profession	Engagement with own strengths and abilities through critical reflection in formal study and while on work experience Learning about different specialisms, roles, work environments through engaging with established professionals from different specialisms and roles or multiple internships	Enabling students to find a place in the profession in which they can thrive
‘Struggling’	Inability	Engagement with own motivations and desires through critical reflection in formal study and while on work experience Opportunities to broaden outlook on profession through engagement with established professionals through extra-curricular activities or internships Pastoral support by programme staff and student support professionals to overcome feelings of hurt / career support to explore alternative careers	Enabling students to overcome barriers to engaging in professional identity work or make another career choice