Integrating UX Journey Mapping with Systems Theory Behavior Over Time Graphs to Explore the Complexities of Identity Formation

Literature on professional identity formation is broad and complex. Currently, researcher identity development is an important topic that is beginning to be studied in different educational areas, including industrial and system engineering. Documenting researcher identity development is critical for designing student-centered programs. This is particularly crucial in doctoral students, as it may contribute to appropriate professional development support delivered by graduate programs. To properly analyze identity development, investigators have used tools from user experience (UX) methods such as journey mapping, which are invaluable. Journey maps document and visualize the steps that the "users" (in this case, novice researchers) take to achieve a goal, including the process that developing professionals undergo to become experts in their respective fields. Meanwhile, investigators have also used Behavior Over Time (BOT) Graphs in Systems Theory research, which assist in analyzing individual and organizational behavior trends over time. BOT graphs are also effective tools for tracking complex social behaviors. This paper proposes the potential to bridge gaps between UX and Systems Theory research methods, through their integrated application to understand researcher identity formation in doctoral engineering students. The integrated application offers a nuanced perspective on the formation of professional identity. This study benefits researchers by offering insights into new potential methodological approaches for mapping complex situations and behaviors. The examples in this paper focus on doctoral researcher identity formation but are not limited to this area. Practitioners and researchers can apply the proposed approach in various contexts, within and outside engineering.